Mental health
True or False: Everyone has mental health, even if they do not have a mental illness.
True
Your heart beating faster, sweaty palms, and tense muscles can all be physical signs of this.
Stress or anxiety
Taking slow breaths in and out is an example of this type of coping strategy.
deep breathing/controlled breathing
If a friend is struggling, you need to solve their problems for them.
False
Spending more time on social media always makes people feel more connected and happier.
False
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and ______ well-being.
social
True or False: All stress is bad for you.
False. Some stress can motivate us or help us respond to challenges.
Why is it important to have healthy coping strategies when you feel stressed or overwhelmed?
Possible answers: Healthy coping strategies help us manage stress, calm down, and make better decisions, They can help us feel better when we are upset or overwhelmed
Name two trusted adults a student could approach if they were struggling.
Possible answers: Parent/guardian, teacher, school counsellor, coach, doctor, social worker, etc.
Name two ways physical activity can support mental well-being.
Possible answers: It can reduce stress, improve mood, help with sleep, provide a break from worries, and improve overall well-being.
Name two signs that someone might be struggling with their mental health.
Possible answers: Changes in sleep, withdrawing from friends, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, loss of interest in activities, ongoing sadness or irritability, etc.
You have a big presentation tomorrow and keep thinking, “I'm definitely going to mess this up.” Name one healthy strategy you could use.
Possible answers: Practise, deep breathing, positive self-talk, prepare ahead, talk to someone, take a short break, etc.
Name three healthy coping strategies someone could use when feeling overwhelmed.
Possible answers: Exercise, talking to someone, journaling, listening to music, breathing exercises, spending time outside, taking a break, doing a hobby, etc.
A friend tells you they're having a really difficult time. Name one good way to respond.
Possible answers: Listen without judging, tell them you care, ask how you can support them, encourage them to talk to a trusted adult.
This daily activity helps your body and brain recover and is especially important for teenagers.
Sleep!
This word describes negative and unfair attitudes or beliefs about people experiencing mental-health challenges.
Stigma
This is the body's automatic response when it senses danger or a threat.
What is the fight-or-flight response?
This coping technique involves focusing your attention on what is happening in the present moment instead of worrying about the past or future.
mindfulness
Your friend tells you something serious and says, “Promise you won't tell anyone.” You think they may be unsafe. What should you do?
Tell a trusted adult who can help, even if your friend asked you to keep it secret.
Name four habits that can support positive mental health.
Sleep, exercise, balanced nutrition, social connection, hobbies, relaxation, time outside, taking breaks from screens, asking for help.
Explain the difference between mental health and mental illness.
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
A mental illness is a health condition that can significantly affect a person's thoughts, feelings, behavior, or functioning.
What is one important difference between everyday stress and a mental-health concern that may require extra support?
Everyday stress often passes or becomes manageable, while ongoing or intense symptoms that interfere with daily life can be a sign that someone should seek support.
Give an example of an unhealthy coping strategy and explain what someone could do instead.
Possible answers:
Avoiding a problem → make a plan and ask for help
isolating yourself → reach out to someone you trust.
What is the difference between supporting a friend and being responsible for their mental health?
You can listen, care and help them connect with support, but you are not responsible for fixing their problems or managing their mental health yourself.
Explain three things you could do if you noticed that your mental health was beginning to affect your everyday life.
Possible answer: Talk to a trusted adult, speak with a school counsellor/mental-health professional or doctor, use healthy coping strategies, maintain healthy routines, and seek appropriate support.