Mental Health Basics
What is Mental Health?
Your emotional, psychological, and social well-being
What is it called when you measure yourself against other people’s lives or achievements?
Social comparison.
Myth or fact: Asking for help is a sign of weakness.
Myth
Name one trusted adult you could talk to if you were struggling.
A parent, teacher, school counsellor, coach, or another trusted adult.
Name one healthy way to cope with stress.
Exercise, talking to someone, listening to music, resting, or taking a break.
True or false: Everyone has mental health.
True
Name one way social media can negatively affect mental health.
It can increase comparison, anxiety, pressure, or feelings of loneliness.
Myth or fact: You can look happy on the outside while struggling inside.
Fact
Your friend seems unusually quiet lately. What is one thing you could say to check in?
“I’ve noticed you seem a little different lately. How are you doing?”
Name two basic habits that can support mental health.
Sleep, regular meals, physical activity, social connection, or time outdoors.
Name one sign that someone might be struggling with their mental health.
Changes in sleep, mood, energy, concentration, or social behaviour.
What is one healthy thing you can do if an account consistently makes you feel bad about yourself?
Mute or unfollow it, or take a break from social media.
Myth or fact: Only people with a mental illness need to care about their mental health.
Myth. Everyone benefits from looking after their mental health.
Your friend tells you they’re having a hard time. What is one helpful thing to do?
Listen without judging, show empathy, or ask how you can support them.
When is a good time to ask for help with your mental health?
Whenever you need support; you don’t have to wait for a crisis.
Does having good mental health mean you are happy all the time?
No. It means being able to cope, adapt, and access support.
Why isn’t it fair to compare your everyday life with someone’s social media feed?
People often share selected highlights rather than their whole lives.
Myth or fact: If your friend is struggling, you should always keep their problems secret.
Myth. Serious safety concerns should be shared with a trusted adult.
Your friend says, “I’m useless at everything.” What is a more supportive response than “Stop being dramatic”?
“I’m sorry you’re feeling that way. Do you want to talk about it?”
What is one thing you can do when a big problem feels too overwhelming?
Break it into smaller steps and focus on one thing you can do next.
Why might two people react differently to the same stressful situation?
They may have different experiences, coping skills, circumstances, and support systems.
You have a major test tomorrow and feel overwhelmed. Name two practical things you could do to manage your stress.
Break studying into smaller tasks, take breaks, get enough sleep, ask for help, or practise slow breathing. Any two reasonable answers count.
Myth or fact: Being mentally healthy means never feeling anxious, sad, or stressed.
Myth. These are normal emotions; what matters includes how we cope and when we seek support.
A friend tells you they might hurt themselves and asks you not to tell anyone. What should you do?
Take them seriously, stay with them if safe, and tell a trusted adult immediately. Get emergency help if there is immediate danger.
In Canada, what three-digit number can you call or text for suicide crisis support?
988. Call 911 for immediate danger.