The Brain
This almond-shaped structure in the brain acts as the alarm system, processing emotions like fear and triggering the fight-or-flight response
amygdala
This popular practice involves focusing your awareness on the present moment, often using your breath as an anchor, to calm the mind
Mindfulness
Saying "no" to extra projects when your schedule is full is an example of setting these personal guidelines, a vital part of social self-care
boundaries
True or False: You only need to actively prioritize and take care of your mental health if you have a diagnosed mental health condition
False (Everyone has mental health and benefits from active well-being practices, just like physical exercise benefits everyone)
This unique "giggle therapy" technique combines playful group exercises with deep breathing to naturally lower stress and boost mood.
Laughter Yoga
This hormone, released by the adrenal glands during times of acute stress, floods the body with glucose and increases heart rate
cortisol
Getting 7 to 9 hours of this nightly biological necessity is crucial for memory, mood regulation, and emotional resilience
What is it called
sleep
This action involves temporarily stepping away from all screens, phones, and social media to reconnect with the physical world
digital detox
True or False: People diagnosed with severe mental illnesses are vastly more likely to be the victims of a violent crime rather than the
True (Public health data shows they are over 10 times more likely to be victims; only 3% to 5% of violent acts are linked to severe mental illness)
pending just 20 minutes connecting with nature called a "nature pill"—is proven to drastically drop your body's levels of this primary stress hormone
cortisol
This part of the brain, located right behind the forehead, is responsible for executive functions like decision-making, logic, and impulse control
prefrontal cortex
This phrase refers to the physical and mental exhaustion that happens when you experience prolonged, unmanaged stress, often related to work or school
Burnout
This intermediate level of acute care provides intensive therapy for several hours during the day, but allows the patient to return home at night
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
True or False: Severe mental health conditions are purely chemical imbalances that a person can eventually "snap out of" if they maintain enough positive thinking
False (Conditions are complex medical issues involving a mix of genetics, biology, environment, and trauma; willpower alone cannot cure
Having any type of animal is scientifically shown to release oxytocin, lower blood pressure, and reduce feelings of loneliness
Pet
This major nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system, acts as the "brake pedal" for stress by lowering heart rate and promoting a state of calm
vagus nerve
This specific type of health practice emphasizes physical movement like walking or yoga to release chemical endorphins that naturally boost your mood
exercise
This modern habit describes compulsively scrolling through bad news online, even though it causes feelings of dread and anxiety
doomscrolling
True or False: Once someone experiences a mental health issue, they can never get better or live a happy life.
False (With the right support, tools, and time, people can fully recover and live highly successful lives)
Playing this fast-paced table sport is heavily praised by brain experts because it acts like "aerobic chess," boosting reflexes, focus, and puzzle-solving skills
ping pong
This term describes the brain's ability to physically change, adapt, and grow new neural pathways over time in response to learning or therapy
neuroplasticity
This term describes the intentional practice of treating yourself with the same kindness, warmth, and understanding that you would offer to a close friend who is struggling
self-compassion
This collaborative, goal-oriented style of communication helps patients find their own internal motivation to change ambivalent or unhealthy behaviors
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
True or False: Feeling sad, angry, or scared sometimes is completely normal and healthy.
True (Everyone experiences a wide range of emotions; having tough feelings does not mean something is wrong with you)
Singing in this type of large vocal group releases oxytocin and endorphins, making it a scientifically proven way to boost your mood and social connection
singing in a choir