Anxiety & Stress
How can anxiety affect someone physically, not just emotionally?
Headaches, upset stomach, fast heart beat, shaking, sweating, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts
What are some warning signs that a friend may be struggling with depression?
low energy, sadness, irritability, changes in sleep/eating, loss of interest, or negative self-talk
What are some classroom challenges a student with ADHD might experience?
Trouble focusing, staying organized, sitting still, remembering assignments, managing time, or waiting their turn.
How can social media be positive for mental health?
It can give people a way to connect and build community and provide education about mental health
What are some phrases that help someone feel supported when they are struggling emotionally?
“I’m here for you.” “You’re not alone.” “Do you want to talk about it?” “That sounds really hard.”
A student suddenly stops presenting in class and asks to go to the nurse frequently. What could be happening beneath the surface?
They may be anxious about presenting
Why might depression sometimes be difficult for adults or friends to notice right away?
Some people hide it, joke around, or pretend they are okay even when they are hurting
What are some strengths that come with ADHD?
Creativity! Humor, energy, problem-solving and thinking outside the box
What are some negatives about social media and mental health?
Cyberbullying, comparing yourself to others, etc.
What is "stigma"?
Fearing judgement, embarrassment, or seeming "weak" for asking for help
What is the difference between everyday stress and an anxiety disorder?
Everyday stress usually goes away once the situation is over
Anxiety Disorder is more intense, last longer, and interferes with your daily life
What are some ways depression can show through our emotions (other than sadness)?
Depression can show up as frustration, anger, numbness, or being easily overwhelmed
A student forgets homework a lot and loses things... what is a strategy that can help?
Write it down! Use a calendar or alarm on your phone to remember
What is the difference between healthy online connection and unhealthy screen use?
When it is interfering with your sleep, responsibilities, or making you feel anxious/sad, then it is unhealthy screen use
If your friend tells you something concerning and asks you to keep it a secret, but you are worried about them, what should you do?
Encourage your friend to tell someone they trust or tell a trusted adult
What is "perfectionism"?
When someone gets anxious about failing, being judged, or disappointing others
What are some ways depression can impact someone's daily life?
People with depression may struggle with getting out of bed in the morning, taking a shower, eating, sleeping, or doing things they enjoy
Why might someone with ADHD do really well on one task but struggle badly with another?
People with ADHD often focus better on tasks that are interesting or rewarding, but may struggle with tasks that feel repetitive, boring, or overwhelming.
Why is it important not to compare yourself to what you see on social media?
Social media only shows highlights of peoples lives. We have no idea what their reality looks like off screen
What is one way we can support a friend struggling with mental health?
Listen and empathize, help find an adult they can talk to, ask how they are doing, etc.
How is depression different than simply feeling sad?
Depression lasts longer and affects motivation, energy, thinking, sleep, and daily functioning
Why might someone with ADHD struggle with forgetting tasks?
ADHD can make planning, organizing, and remembering important things difficult (these are called executive functioning skills)
Why is it important to think critically about mental health information shared on TikTok or social media?
Anyone can post anything on TikTok/social media, so we don't know if it is accurate
When should you involve a trusted adult about a friend's mental health concern?
When safety is involved, someone talks about self-harm, abuse, suicide, violence, or when the situation feels too big to handle alone.