Know the Signs
Name one physical symptom of anxiety
racing heartbeat/shortness of breath/shaking/excessive sweating
Name one healthy coping strategy for stress
exercise, journaling, or deep breathing
True or False: Depression is just feeling sad
False, depression is a medical condition that affects mood, energy, sleep, appetite, and daily functioning
What organ is most directly affected by anxiety and depression
Brain
Who is the first person you could talk to at school if you were struggling mentally
school counsellor or a trusted adult or trusted friend
True or False: Feeling sad for 2+ weeks can be a sign of depression
True
what type of professional provides talk therapy
therapist, counsellor, psychologist
True or False: Only adults can have anxiety disorders
False, children and teenagers can and do experience anxiety disorders
Name a chemical in the brain that is closely linked to mood and happiness
Dopamine
Name one crisis support line available to youth
kids help phone, crisis text line
What condition is described as persistent, uncontrollable worry about everyday things?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Name a breathing technique used to calm anxiety
box breathing, 4-7-8 breathing
True or False: Talking about suicide plants the idea in someone's head
False, asking someone directly about suicide actually opens the door to help and can save their life
How does exercise help people who are experiencing depression?
Exercise releases endorphins, reduced stress hormones like cortisol, and naturally boosts mood
Giving full attention, not interrupting, not judging, making the person feel heard, and asking thoughtful follow-up questions
Name two obvious and critical emotional signs of depression
Hopelessness and loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
What does CBT stand for and what does it do
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, helps change negative thought patterns into healthier ones
True or False: people with depression can just "snap out of it" if they try hard enough
False, depression is a medical condition that requires proper support and often treatment
What part of the brain is responsible for triggering fear and axiety responses
amygdala
Name two common barriers that prevent people from seeking mental health help
stigma and shame, not knowing where to go, cost of therapy, fear of judgment, or feeling life their problems aren't serious enough
What is the key difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder
An anxiety disorder is more frequent, more intense, and interferes with daily life
Name 3 lifestyle changes proven to reduce depression symptoms
Regular sleep, exercising regularly, eating nutritious food, maintaining a routine, and staying socially connected
What is one thing you should do if a friend tells you they are struggling with depression
listen without judgment, take them seriously, encourage them to speak to a trusted adult or professional and regularly check in on them
How does chronic sleep deprivation affect mental health
worsens anxiety and depression symptoms, impairs emotional regulation, reduces concentration, and increases irritability
What is one sign that someone may be in crisis and needs immediate help
Wanting to die, giving away their belongings, withdrawing from friends and family, expressing feelings of hopelessness, or saying they feel like a burden to others.