What is Depression?
True or False: Everyone feels sad from time to time
True
Myth or Fact: Depression is a real health condition
Fact
Complete the sentence: "You don't have to go through depression ____"
Example: alone
Examples: walking, sports, art, music, journaling, sleeping well, spending time with friends
True or False: Asking for help is a sign of strength
True
DAILY DOUBLE!
Depression is more than just:
A) Feeling sad for a few hours
B) A temporary bad mood
C) Both A and B
C) Both A and B
Myth or Fact: Only adults experience depression
Myth
Which response is most supportive?
A) "Other people have it worse"
B) "I'm glad you told me"
B) "I'm glad you told me"
Interactive challenge: Everyone name one thing they do when they need to recharge
Answers vary
Complete the sentence: "Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your ______ health."
Physical
Name one way depression can affect a person's daily life
Examples: difficulty concentrating, low energy, changes in sleep, changes in appetite, loss of interest in activities
Myth or Fact: Someone with depression can simply "snap out of it."
Myth
If a friend says they've been struggling emotionally, what's one thing you can do?
Examples: listen, check-in, spend time with them, encourage support from a trusted adult
Which of these can positively impact mental health?
A) Regular sleep
B) Physical activity
C) Social connection
D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What does resilience mean?
The ability to recover, adapt, and keep moving forward through challenges
Depression can affect:
A) Thoughts
B) Emotions
C) Physical health
D) All of the above
D) All of the above
DAILY DOUBLE!
Myth or Fact: People with depression may still laugh, hang out with friends, or do well in school
Fact
Scenario challenge: A friend has stopped doing activities they use to enjoy. What's a caring way to reach out?
Examples: invite them to join an activity, send a supportive message, ask how they're doing, listen without judgment
What is one small act of self-care someone can do even on a difficult day?
Examples: drink water, take a shower, step outside, text a friend, listen to music, stretch
Interactive: what's one personal strength that can help get someone through a difficult time?
Examples: courage, persistence, creativity, kindness, humour, determination, support-seeking
DAILY DOUBLE!
Discussion: Why might someone with depression appear "fine" on the outside even when they are struggling inside?
Example: people may hide their feelings, want privacy, fear judgment, or work hard to appear okay
Discussion: What are some harmful stereotypes people might believe about depression, and why are they inaccurate?
Examples: it means someone is weak, lazy, attention-seeking, or unmotivated. Depression is a health challenge, not a character flaw
Discussion: Why is listening sometimes more helpful than trying to immediately solve someone's problems?
It helps people feel heard, understood, respected, and less alone
Discussion: Why can small accomplishments feel important during difficult emotional periods?
Examples: they build confidence, create momentum, remind people they are capable of taking positive steps
Discussion: Think about a difficult challenge you've overcome. What helped you get through it, and how could that help someone else?