Definition: a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person - common in the world of mental health.
Stigma
Stigma can make people feel alone, embarrassed, ashamed, and often prevents them from seeking treatment when they need it. One way to reduce stigma about mental illness is to use people first language. For example, avoid saying that individual is an addict, and instead say that individual is struggling with an addiction.
Person-First Language; puts the person before the disability or the condition and emphasizes the value and worth of the individual.
True or False: There is a direct link between gut health and mental health
True
What is a cause of stress
Upcoming tests (unprepared for), too much homework/ heavy workload, lack of support, high expectations, upcoming changes, challenging relationships, etc.
What is a common technique you can use to calm down when you are upset / dysregulated / anxious
Deep Breathing
In our district we have a number of resources to support those who may be having thoughts of suicide, or experiencing a crisis. Who are these resources?
Kids Help Phone
Thunder Bay Crisis Response
988
True or False: Being isolated from others is heathy
False.
Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk for: heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and anxiety.
What is important to remember when you become angry
That anger is a positive and useful emotion, IF it is expressed appropriately.
Think before you react/respond.
Practice coping skills like deep breathing, counting, and self-talk, etc.
Walk away and remove yourself from the situation if needed.
Name one unhealthy way of coping with your emotions
Substance abuse/ misuse, emotional eating, self-harm, isolation, impulsive or risky behaviors.
True or False: All stress is bad
False
Good stress: ride a roller coaster, compete in a game, go on a first date, driver's test!
Good stress motivates us!
List three coping skills
Listen to music, talk to someone, go for a walk, etc...
Which group of individuals are almost 3 times more likely to experience a mental health condition
2SLGBTQ+
2S - Two Spirit
L - Lesbian
G - Gay
B - Bisexual / Bi
T - Transgender / Trans
Q - Queer
Q - Questioning
+ (Plus) - a way to include additional sexual orientations and gender identities under the 2SLGBTQ+ umbrella, including the terms listed below. For some, the plus stands for love and acceptance.
Protective Factors are things that contribute to mental health, and allow a person to be resilient in the face of challenges. Name two protective factors you hold...
Answers will vary
These can be used to reduce stress and improve our mental wellness.
What are coping skills
What is self-care
"Self-care means taking time to do things you enjoy, and taking care of yourself. When used consistently, self-care can reduce stress, relieve uncomfortable emotions, and improve physical health."
(Therapist Aid, LLC)
Describe the 5-4-3-2-1 Coping Strategy
A technique that asks you to find things you can see, smell, hear, touch, and taste (5 senses) to calm down when feeling anxious or distressed.
Help Seeking is important and there's no problem or challenge too big or too small to ask for help.
In our community we have a number of services/organizations...
SGDSB Mental Health Workers
SGDSB Child and Youth Workers
Mental Health Nurse - Cassandra
North of Superior Counselling Programs
Dilico - Mental Health / Counsellors
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
Suicide Crisis Helpline 9-8-8
True or False: Compassion is only something we engage in with others...
False - self-compassion is also very important!
The act of recognizing and acknowledging the good things that happen, resulting in a state of appreciation and improved mood...
Gratitude
Our Four Value Commitments
Be Here
Be Safe
Take Care of Self and Others
Let Go and Move Forward
Name one thing you've done for yourself or someone else
Responses will vary