Symptoms & Signs
What are two physical signs of depression?
Headaches, stomachaches, sleep changes, appetite changes.
Depression is only sadness (M/F)?
Myth. Depression includes more than just sadness—like numbness or irritability.
Name a feeling beyond "sad."
Lonely, empty, ashamed, overwhelmed, anxious.
What is grounding?
A technique to help bring attention to the present moment.
Who can you talk to?
A trusted adult, therapist, friend, sibling.
What is fatigue?
Feeling extremely tired or lacking energy, even after rest.
People with friends can’t be depressed (M/F)?
Myth. Depression can affect anyone, even those with strong social networks.
What’s emotional numbness?
Feeling nothing at all—disconnected from emotions.
Name a healthy distraction.
Listening to music, drawing, reading, taking a walk
How can friends help?
Listening, checking in, spending time together.
What is anhedonia?
Losing interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.
Only adults get depressed (M/F)?
Myth. Teens and even children can experience depression.
Draw an emoji to show depression.
(This one is creative—participants may draw a tearful face, a blank face, etc.)
Deep breathing helps because…
It calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety.
Name a support you trust.
Individualized
What’s irritability?
Being easily annoyed, frustrated, or angered
It's okay to "snap out of it" (M/F)?
Myth. Depression is a medical condition—not something you can just stop feeling.
Why is naming emotions helpful?
helpful?It helps you understand what you’re feeling and how to cope with it.
Name a creative coping skill.
Painting, writing poetry, making a playlist.
What makes it hard to ask for help?
Shame, fear of judgment, not wanting to burden others.
Name 3 signs of depression.
Sadness, withdrawal from friends, hopelessness, lack of energy.
Meds always fix it (M/F)?
Myth. Medication can help, but therapy, support, and coping skills are also important.
How do you express feelings safely?
Talking to someone, journaling, using art, or using grounding techniques.
Give an example of an “emergency self-care plan.”
Call a friend, deep breathing, talk to a therapist, use a safe space.
What does feeling supported look like?
Feeling heard, safe, accepted, and not alone.