Media Representation
What does media representation mean?
(How people, cultures, or groups are shown in media.)
What is one positive effect of social media?
(e.g., connection, learning, expression)
What is media literacy?
(The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media.)
What’s one healthy way to use media during your day?
(e.g., setting time limits, choosing positive content)
What’s one way to take a break from media?
(e.g., go for a walk, read a book, turn off phone)
Why is it important to have diverse characters in movies and shows?
(So everyone feels seen and included.)
What is one negative effect of too much social media use?
(e.g., anxiety, comparison, sleep loss)
Why is it important to question what we see in the media?
(Not everything is true or balanced.)
Name a type of media that can help you relax.
(e.g., calming music, nature videos, podcasts)
What time of day should you avoid screens to help your sleep?
(About 1 hour before bed)
True or False: Unrealistic body images in media can negatively affect self-esteem.
True
What is FOMO, and how can it affect mental health?
(Fear of missing out—it can cause stress or sadness.)
What’s one clue that an online post or image might be fake or misleading?
(E.g., no source, looks edited, extreme claims)
True or False: Watching inspiring or funny content can improve your mood.
True
What’s one thing you can do if something online makes you feel bad?
(Talk to someone, report it, log off)
What’s one way mental illness is often misrepresented in media?
(Examples: always shown as violent, exaggerated, or scary.)
Why can comparing yourself to others online be harmful?
(Because people often only post highlights, not real life.)
What does it mean to “fact-check” something?
(Check other trusted sources to see if it’s true.)
What’s one example of using social media to support others?
(e.g., sharing mental health resources, positive comments)
What’s one app or website that promotes mental health?
(E.g., Calm, Headspace, MindShift)
Name a show or movie that represents mental health positively
(Open-ended; e.g., Inside Out, Atypical)
What is doomscrolling, and how does it affect your mood?
(Constantly scrolling through negative news—can increase stress or anxiety.)
Why is media literacy important for protecting mental health?
(So you don’t fall for toxic messages, false info, or harmful content.)
Describe a time when media made you feel more confident, supported, or understood.
(Open-ended)
Create your own “Media Wellness Plan” with 3 positive habits.
(Open-ended)