Horizon’s Teen Mental Health Series Supporting Learning in New Brunswick Classrooms

Grade 9 students at Hartland Community School are taking a new approach to understanding mental health, thanks to Horizon’s Teen Mental Health video series on YouTube.

Mrs. Watson, who teaches Personal Wellness 9, a required course for all Grade 9 students, has been using the videos to support outcomes in both the Wellness and Mental Fitness strands of the curriculum. Topics such as ADHD, anxiety, and vaping have helped bridge classroom learning with clear, accessible explanations from trusted Horizon clinicians.

“The videos are visually appealing and provide accurate information in a way that is easy for teens to grasp and connect with,” she said.

Sparking Conversation and Building Practical Skills

To guide reflection, Mrs. Watson asks students to think about two questions while watching: What is one interesting thing you learned, and what is one question you still have?

This simple prompt has turned three-to-four-minute videos into meaningful class discussions, often extending conversations by 20 minutes or more. Students explore what they have learned, ask deeper questions, and build on concepts through additional research and classroom activities.

One moment stood out. After the class watched the video on anxiety disorders and grounding techniques, they practiced box breathing, the 5-4-3-2-1 method, and progressive muscle relaxation together. Every student participated.

The impact was immediate. The next day, an educational assistant told Mrs. Watson that one of the students had already used box breathing in another class to help regulate her emotions.

“That was a moment of real connection between the lesson and the student’s lived experience,” she said.

Accessible, Accurate Information from Local Health Professionals

For Mrs. Watson, having mental health content created by Horizon clinicians matters.

“As a teacher in New Brunswick, I want to provide students with information that is relevant, accurate, and meaningful. Having resources created by our provincial health authority gives me confidence that what I am sharing reflects best practices.”

She also sees the benefit of delivering these resources on a platform students already use daily. The familiarity of YouTube, a platform teens already use, enhances accessibility and engagement, and the partnership between Horizon and YouTube helps ensure the content is trustworthy.

Supporting Confidence in the Classroom

Teaching mental health can feel daunting for educators. Reliable tools make a difference.

“Resources like these allow me to address sensitive topics with trusted guidance,” she said. “It builds confidence for teachers, and it builds credibility with students and parents.”

Explore the Series

Horizon’s Teen Mental Health series is part of a broader partnership with YouTube, aimed at combating misinformation and ensuring access to evidence-based health content from verified sources.

Watch the playlist and learn more about the partnership: