Understanding Mental Illness
What is a common mental illness among young people and what are some of the symptoms they may experience.
Anxiety
Depression
Mood disorder
Eating disorder
Depression only affects a person’s emotions.
False – it also affects sleep, energy, and motivation.
What is self-esteem?
A) The number of followers you have
B) How much you believe in your ability
C) Your overall opinion of yourself
D) What others say about you
C) Your overall opinion of yourself
What is stigma?
A) A celebration of mental health
B) A stereotype or negative label that causes shame or silence
C) A type of illness
D) A medical treatment
B
List three support services that are available for young people. Provide a general outline of what they provide.
Kids helpline
Headspace
Butterfly program
Reachout
Lifeline
They all differ though they typically provide mental health services, counselling, education, employment assistance, and drug and alcohol support, support hotlines, GP appointments.
Why is early intervention important for managing mental illness?
It prevents symptoms from worsening, helps recovery happen sooner, and reduces long-term effects. For example, seeing a school counsellor early can stop anxiety from turning into panic attacks.
List two signs of depression in young people
.
Withdrawal from friends and family, constant fatigue, low mood, or changes in appetite.
Provide one way media and social platforms influence self-image.
Promoting unrealistic beauty standards, constant comparison with others, pressure to present a “perfect” life.
Name one mental health challenge athletes often face and explain why.
Performance pressure can cause anxiety or burnout because they are expected to win or perform at high levels constantly.
List five activities that promote mindfulness in everyday life.
Deep breathing, meditation, colouring, mindful walking, journaling.
"List some common triggers that can lead to the development of mental illness?"
Common triggers include stressful life events (like losing a loved one or experiencing trauma), substance abuse, bullying or social isolation, major life changes (such as moving schools or changing friendships), and family history of mental health issues. For example, the pressure of school exams can trigger anxiety or depression in some individuals.
"What are some strategies you can use to improve and manage your mood?"
Some strategies include practicing mindfulness or meditation to stay present, engaging in physical activity like going for a walk or doing yoga, connecting with a supportive friend or family member, and ensuring you get enough sleep. For example, going for a 10-minute walk outside can help lift your mood by reducing stress and increasing endorphins.
"What is a strategy young people can do to foster a positive self-image while using social media?"
One strategy is to curate a social media feed that includes positive, body-neutral content and follows creators who promote authenticity over perfection. Another way is by limiting screen time and taking breaks to avoid comparison and negative self-talk that can arise from constant online exposure.
How can stigma around mental illness be reduced in schools or communities? Provide on example.
Educating students through mental health programs, encouraging open conversations, promoting help-seeking behaviour, and sharing stories from public figures like athletes who’ve struggled and recovered.
How can someone access mental health services?
Going online to a free service
Going to the GP to receive a mental health plan and booking in with a specialist e.g. therapist
"How can mental illness be both prevented and managed effectively?" Provide at least one example
Mental illness can be prevented by building strong coping skills, maintaining a balanced lifestyle (sleep, exercise, nutrition), and having a good support system. Managing mental illness often involves therapy, medication, regular physical activity, and talking openly about mental health. For instance, seeking early intervention from a counsellor can prevent a mild issue from developing into a more serious condition.
How do mood disorders like depression impact daily life and relationships?
They can lead to irritability, low energy, and disconnection, making it hard to keep up with school, sports, or friendships. For example, someone might avoid social events or struggle to focus in class.
"How do self-esteem, self-belief, and self-concept differ from one another?"
Self-esteem is how you feel about yourself and your worth, often linked to confidence and how you value your abilities. Self-belief refers to your confidence in your ability to succeed in specific tasks or challenges, like believing you can achieve your goals. Self-concept is the broader understanding of who you are, including your personality, strengths, values, and experiences.
In what ways does the media negatively shape how people view mental illness?"
Media representation can significantly influence how people perceive mental illness. Often, mental illness is portrayed inaccurately or exaggerated, which can lead to stigma and misunderstanding. For instance, movies or shows may depict people with mental health disorders as dangerous or unpredictable, reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
What are some common barriers to seeking mental health help, and how can they be overcome?"
Common barriers to seeking help include fear of stigma or judgment, a lack of understanding about mental health, financial costs, and not knowing where to find support. These barriers can be overcome by increasing awareness and education about mental health, normalizing conversations around mental illness, offering free or low-cost services, and ensuring that young people know where to find help. For example, promoting online resources or having school-based mental health programs can reduce the stigma and make support more accessible.