True or False
Mental Health and Addictions issues are common in youth.
TRUE. Both mental health and addictions issues are common. Issues can look different in everyone and can impact life in different ways.
What are 2 signs of depression?
BONUS: How long do the signs/symptoms have to last?
- severe hopelessness
- isolation from friends/family
- losing interest in hobbies
* Lasts more than 2 weeks
Ignoring sadness, anger, and substance use is the best way to make it go away.
FALSE. Avoidance of personal issue is typically seen as an unhealthy coping technique.
People with mental illness can't get better.
FALSE. Mental illness is treatable through different things such as therapy, self help, medication, and group work.
This mental health disorder has both sudden excessive good moods and sudden feelings of worthlessness, sadness and hopelessness.
Bi-Polar Disorder.
Talking to a trusted adult is something myself or other students could do to get help.
TRUE. Seek help from teachers, principal, parents and me! I am a new here to support your school with mental health and addictions.
Mental health and addiction issues are due to personal weakness.
FALSE. Mental health and addictions can come from various social, biological, and environmental factors.
How does cannabis (weed) impact youths brain?
Impacts the development of the brain. Cannabis use can impact things like memory and concentration if used before the age of 25. Use can also cause psychosis (disorders such as schizophrenia) the more it is used before the age of 25.
Admitting something is "wrong" is considered giving up on yourself or not being good enough.
FALSE. Admitting something's wrong is a hard thing to do and seeking support is a sign of strength and willingness to work through it.
Alcohol use has just as many use risks as other drug use.
TRUE. Alcohol use/addiction is one of the most dangerous. Because drinking alcohol is typically very socially accepted many people do not see it as a drug.
What could you do if you noticed a friend or classmate becoming very sad, hopeless, and being hard on themselves?
Talk to them: ask them if they are OK and if there is anything going on. Tell an adult that you think there's something going on. There are always things you can do to help.
What are some ways you can self-help if you are feeling depressed or anxious?
- Listening to music, hanging out with friends, writing in a journal, going for a walk, playing sports.
- Any strategy that makes you feel good in the moment.