Mental Health Basics
What does mental health explore?
How we think, feel, and act.
What do we call feelings such as happiness, sadness, and anger?
Emotions.
Name one thing that can cause students stress.
Tests, homework, friendships, or family changes.
How many hours of sleep do teenagers ages 13–18 generally need each night?
8–10 hours.
Name one trusted adult you can talk to when you have a problem.
Parent, caregiver, teacher, school counselor, nurse, or coach.
Is mental health just as important as physical health?
Yes, both are important to overall well-being.
Is it okay to feel sad sometimes?
Yes, all emotions are normal.
Name one activity that can help you calm down when stressed.
Deep breathing, drawing, stretching, or listening to music.
Name one activity that supports mental health.
Exercise, hobbies, relaxation, or spending time with supportive people.
What is one way to show a friend you are listening?
Listen without interrupting or judging.
Can anyone experience mental health challenges?
Yes, mental health challenges can affect anyone.
Name one healthy way to express anger.
Take a break, talk calmly, or write in a journal.
What is a coping skill?
A strategy that helps you manage difficult feelings or situations.
How can getting enough sleep help your mental health?
It can improve mood, attention, and emotional regulation.
What could you say to a friend who seems upset?
“I'm here for you” or “Would you like to talk?”
Does having a mental health challenge mean someone is weak?
No, mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness.
What can you do if you have trouble identifying your feelings?
Pause, use an emotion chart, or talk to someone you trust.
You have three assignments due tomorrow and feel overwhelmed. What is one helpful thing you can do?
Break the work into smaller steps or ask for help.
Why might taking a break from screens be helpful?
It allows time for rest, movement, sleep, and social connection.
If a friend tells you they might be unsafe and asks you to keep it secret, what should you do?
Tell a trusted adult who can help keep them safe.
Name two things that can affect mental health.
Stress, sleep, relationships, life changes, or support systems.
Can you feel excited and nervous at the same time?
Yes, people can experience more than one emotion at once.
What is the difference between a healthy and an unhealthy coping skill?
Healthy coping supports well-being, while unhealthy coping can cause harm or worsen problems.
Name three ways to practice self-care.
Get enough sleep, eat regularly, exercise, relax, or connect with supportive people.
When should someone ask for help with their mental health?
When feelings become overwhelming, persist, interfere with daily life, or raise safety concerns.