Stress & the Body
What is the body's natural response to a challenge, threat, or demand?
Stress
Name two healthy ways to manage stress.
Exercise, deep breathing, getting enough sleep, journaling, or talking to someone.
True or false: Mental health disorders are a sign of weakness.
False
True or false: Someone can be struggling with their mental health even if they seem happy around others.
True
Name one trusted adult at school who could help a student experiencing a mental health crisis.
School counselor, teacher, coach, school nurse, or administrator.
What hormone is commonly released during the body's fight-or-flight response?
Adrenaline (epinephrine).
What is the difference between healthy and unhealthy coping strategies?
Healthy coping strategies help manage stress without causing harm, while unhealthy strategies can create additional problems.
What is the difference between everyday anxiety and an anxiety disorder?
An anxiety disorder involves excessive or persistent fear or worry that significantly interferes with daily life.
Name two warning signs that someone may be at risk for suicide.
Talking about suicide, expressing hopelessness, giving away valued possessions, or major changes in behavior.
What three-digit number can someone in the United States call or text for suicide and crisis support?
988
What is the difference between eustress and distress?
Eustress is positive or motivating stress, while distress is negative or overwhelming stress.
Why might avoiding a stressful situation actually make anxiety worse?
Avoidance may provide temporary relief but can prevent problem-solving and reinforce fear.
Name two warning signs of depression in teenagers besides sadness.
Loss of interest, irritability, changes in sleep, withdrawal from friends, or low energy.
Your friend says, "Everyone would be better off without me." Why should you take this statement seriously?
It could be a warning sign of suicidal thinking or hopelessness and should lead to a supportive check-in and getting help from a trusted adult.
Your best friend tells you they are thinking about suicide but asks you to keep it secret. What should you do?
Tell a trusted adult immediately. Never promise to keep suicidal thoughts secret.
Name three physical symptoms of chronic stress
Headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, stomach problems, or difficulty sleeping.
How can sleep, exercise, and healthy eating help manage stress?
They support energy, mood, concentration, and physical recovery.
Why is bipolar disorder different from ordinary mood swings?
Bipolar disorder involves distinct episodes of depression and mania or hypomania that significantly affect mood, energy, and functioning.
Why should you take jokes or comments about suicide seriously, even if the person says they are kidding?
They may be signs of real emotional distress, and ignoring them could prevent someone from receiving help.
True or false: Asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide can put the idea into their head.
False. Asking directly and calmly can help someone open up and receive support.
Why can chronic stress affect a student's memory, concentration, and decision-making?
Chronic stress can interfere with sleep, attention, learning, and the brain's ability to process information.
A student is overwhelmed with school, sports, and work. Name three steps they could take to manage their stress.
Prioritize responsibilities, create a schedule or break tasks into smaller steps, and seek support when needed.
Why is it dangerous to diagnose someone with a mental health disorder based only on their behavior or social media posts?
Many conditions share symptoms, and a qualified professional must assess the person before making a diagnosis.
A student suddenly withdraws from friends, gives away important belongings, and posts a goodbye message online. What should you do?
Contact a trusted adult immediately, stay with the person if safe, and get emergency help if there is immediate danger.
You receive a concerning message about suicide late at night, and your friend stops responding. What should you do?
Immediately alert a trusted adult and contact emergency services if there is imminent danger or the person's safety cannot be established. Do not wait until the next school day.