Myth or Fact
Mental health conditions are rare among teenagers.
Myth! 49.5% of individuals ages 13-18 experience a form of mental illness (whether that be a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder).
Unexplained and persistent sadness. May cause a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, weight loss/weight gain, sleep disturbances, or feelings of hopelessness. These feelings must last for at least two weeks.
What is depression?
True or false: asking for help is a sign of weakness.
False! Asking for help can require bravery. It’s a sign of strength.
988
What is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline? You can call or text 988 to receive free and confidential support.
Famous female singer whose debut song was titled after a form of photo ID.
Asking your friend if they are struggling with suicidal thoughts will make them more likely to attempt suicide.
Myth! Asking someone about suicide does not “give them the idea.”
A mental health condition where an individual feels intense fear or stress from social interactions. The individual may think they are constantly being judged or criticized by peers.
What is social anxiety?
True or false: mental health symptoms last forever.
False! While mental health conditions are not always curable, effective treatment can lessen or remove daily symptoms.
An app that connects students, educators, and parents/guardians to a licensed counselor. You can call, chat, or submit a tip.
What is SafeUT? This service is confidential and free. Provides support on the following topics: depression and anxiety, bullying, suicide prevention, drug and alcohol problems, self-harm, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, and more.
The most used social media platform in 2023.
Many factors contribute to developing a mental health condition, including life experiences, trauma, biological factors, and family history of mental illness.
Fact!
This condition consists of irrational fears or persistent thoughts/obsessions that lead to compulsions. Compulsions are used to decrease the anxiety and fear the individual feels.
What is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
True or false: medication is always prescribed as part of treatment.
False! Medication can be helpful, and is sometimes necessary depending on the severity of the issue, but other methods such as therapy and counseling can also be very helpful. Talk to a doctor about all of your different options.
A place on campus where a safe person is there to listen and assist during difficult times.
What is the counseling office? Ms. Barrick is the school counselor.
TV show created by the Duffer Brothers featuring a girl with powers who loves Eggo waffles.
What is Stranger Things?
Those with a mental health condition are more likely to commit a violent crime.
Myth! Less than 10% of violent acts are committed by people with mental health conditions. Conversely, individuals experiencing mental health symptoms are at an increased risk of being a victim of a crime.
An individual with this condition struggles with inattention and/or hyperactivity. Some symptoms include: constant fidgeting, difficulty concentrating, short attention span, and talking excessively.
What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
True or false: All therapy providers use the same techniques.
False! There are many different treatment options, and different providers specialize in different modalities. Just because one strategy didn’t work doesn’t mean you won’t have success with another tactic.
Techniques that reduce stress and help us manage and cope with overwhelming emotions and situations.
What are coping skills?
The Gen Z term for someone who loves and supports a celebrity.
What is a stan?
70% of youth in juvenile detention struggle with a diagnosable mental health condition.
Fact!
A condition that can develop after a traumatic event or experience. This condition causes an individual to demonstrate avoidance behaviors, feel more reactive/on edge, experience changes in cognition and mood, and re-live the experience (through thoughts, dreams, or flashbacks).
What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
A treatment strategy in which clients learn more about their diagnosed mental health condition, empowering them with a sense of knowledge and awareness.
What is psychoeducation?
Name three coping skills.
Breathing exercises, mindfulness, five senses exercise, hobbies, being active, journaling, and more.
The person with the most followers on Instagram.
Who is Christiano Ronaldo?