MENTAL HEALTH BASICS
What three parts of well-being are included in mental health?
Emotional, psychological and social well-being.
What is stress?
The mind and body responding to a demand or challenge.
What does OCD stand for?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Why is depression described as more than a bad day?
It can affect mood, interest, energy, thinking, and daily activities over time.
True or false: eating disorders can affect people at any body size.
True
True or false: Mental health matters only on difficult days.
False
Name TWO signs of stress
Tense body, headaches, irritability, or trouble focusing.
What is an obsession in OCD?
An unwanted repeated thought, image, or urge that causes significant distress.
Name TWO possible changes associated with depression.
Low energy, sadness or irritability, less interest, sleep changes, withdrawal or difficulty concentrating.
What are the eating disorders mentioned in the lesson?
Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder
Name TWO factors that can shape mental well-being.
Sleep, Physical Health, Life Experiences, Relationships, Family History, School or Online Pressures.
How is an anxiety disorder different from an ordinary anxious moment?
Anxiety that is persistent, intense and significantly interferes with daily life.
What is a compulsion?
A repeated action or mental ritual a person feels driven to perform.
Taylor stopped attending art club and barely joins lunch. What are the observable changes?
Loss of interest in art club, withdrawing at lunch, tiredness over a long period of time.
Which eating disorder involves restrictive intake NOT primarily related to weight or shape concerns?
ARFID — avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder.
What should you avoid doing when you notice a possible mental health concern?
Avoid diagnosing, labeling, making jokes, or commenting on someone’s body.
What are healthy coping tools?
Slow breathing, a break, planning small steps, asking for help, rest, sleep, movement or time offline.
True or false: enjoying a clean room proves a person has OCD.
False
What is a caring sentence you could say to Taylor?
“I’ve noticed you seem quieter lately. Do you want to talk?”
What kind of comments should you avoid when you are worried about someone’s eating?
Comments about their weight, body, or food choices.
When is it a good idea to reach out for mental health support?
When feelings are hard to manage, interfere with school, sleep, relationships, daily life, or safety.
Alex is overwhelmed by two tests and an after-school commitment. Give a coping step and an adult who could help.
Break the work into smaller steps and speak with a teacher, caregiver, or school counselor.
A person experiences unwanted, repeated thoughts about germs and feels the need to wash their hands over and over to reduce anxiety. In OCD, what are the two terms used to describe these thoughts and repetitive behaviors?
What are Obsessions and Compulsions
A friend talks about self-harm or suicide. What is the immediate next step?
Tell a trusted adult right away; never promise secrecy.
What kinds of professionals who support eating disorder recovery?
Medical professionals, mental health professionals, and nutrition professionals.