Supporting Mental Health Through ESL Lessons

Mental health is an essential topic in every classroom, and it’s especially important when teaching English Language Learners (ELLs) who may be navigating stress from both personal experiences and difficult current events. As an adult basic education volunteer or practitioner, you can help learners build not only their language skills but also their confidence in discussing and managing mental health.

A great mental health lesson resource from #IamABE and designed specifically for High Beginning ELLs includes three engaging lessons: “Fight, Flight or Freeze,” “Talking to Your Doctor about Depression,” and “Physical & Mental Health.” These lessons integrate reading, writing, speaking, and listening practice into thoughtful health-related content.

Here’s how you can use them effectively:

Normalize Mental Health Conversations
These lessons create a safe space for learners to talk about stress, emotions, and well-being. The “Fight, Flight or Freeze” lesson helps students understand the body’s response to stress, while also teaching useful vocabulary for describing emotions and reactions.

Build Health Literacy and System Navigation Skills
 In “Talking to Your Doctor about Depression,” learners practice real-world dialogue, identify symptoms and treatments for depression and interpret medical data. This is especially empowering for students unfamiliar with how to access or discuss mental health support in the U.S.

Honor Cultural Knowledge
 The lessons encourage learners to share their own culturally relevant health practices and coping strategies. This fosters connection in the classroom and validates the diverse experiences students bring with them.

Use During Difficult News Cycles
 Whether students are coping with global events or local challenges, these lessons offer timely language practice that’s grounded in empathy and relevance. They provide tools for self-expression and self-care when they’re needed most.

Tip: Before beginning, check in with your students about the topic. Let them know it’s okay to share—or not share—personal experiences. Encourage curiosity and respect, and be ready to pause for discussion or support as needed.

These lessons go beyond vocabulary—they give learners the tools to care for themselves and one another in challenging times. You’re not just teaching English; you’re helping build critical thinking and navigation skills.

For questions or comments about this Tutor Tip, contact Training Coordinator, Meghan Boyle at [email protected].