Mental Health Terms
What is anxiety?
A mental health condition involving excessive worry, fear, or nervousness.
Name one deep breathing technique.
Box breathing, 4-7-8 breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing.
What is black-and-white thinking?
Seeing situations as all good or all bad, with no in-between.
Name 3 emotions.
Examples: joy, fear, sadness, anger, excitement.
Name a healthy bedtime habit.
Limiting screens, going to bed at the same time, relaxing routine.
What is grounding?
A technique used to bring a person into the present moment.
Name 2 self-soothing tools.
Examples: scented lotion, music, warm bath, fidget toy.
What is catastrophizing?
Expecting the worst possible outcome.
What emotion often hides under anger?
Hurt, fear, or shame.
How many cups of water are recommended daily?
About 8 cups (can vary).
What is depression?
A mood disorder involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue.
What is a coping skill for stress?
Examples: journaling, exercise, talking to a friend.
Give an example of mind reading.
Assuming you know what someone is thinking (e.g., "They must think I'm stupid").
What is an emotion wheel used for?
To help identify and name complex emotions.
Name 2 benefits of regular exercise
Reduces anxiety, improves mood, boosts energy, supports sleep.
What is a trigger?
Something that causes an emotional or behavioral reaction, often tied to past experiences.
Name a healthy distraction technique.
Walking, listening to music, drawing, watching a comedy.
Define personalization.
Blaming yourself for things outside your control.
Name 2 physical signs of anxiety.
Increased heart rate, sweating, restlessness, stomach upset.
Name one habit that supports mental health.
Consistent sleep, nutritious meals, routine, social connection.
What is self-compassion?
Being kind and understanding toward yourself during times of difficulty or failure.
What is the STOP skill in DBT?
Stop, Take a step back, Observe, Proceed mindfully.
What’s the opposite of a cognitive distortion?
Balanced, realistic, or rational thinking.
How might shame feel in the body?
Heavy, tense, withdrawn, warm face, stomach knots.
How does nutrition affect mental health?
A balanced diet can improve mood, focus, and energy levels.