True or False
Mental Health Questions
Stress & Horses
only YOU can answer these questions
100

True or False: Being isolated from others is heathy

False.

Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk for: heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and anxiety. 

100

_ _ _ _ _ _ is word to describe a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person - common in the world of mental health.

Stigma

Stigma can make people feel alone, embarrassed, ashamed, and often prevents them from seeking treatment when they need it. One way to reduce stigma about mental illness is to use people first language. For example, avoid saying that individual is an addict, and instead say that individual is struggling with an addiction. 

Person-First Language; puts the person before the disability or the condition and emphasizes the value and worth of the individual. 

100

What should you do when a horse pins their ears back?

Provide them space, provide them verbal affirmations

100

What is a common technique you can use to calm down when you are upset / dysregulated / anxious

Answers may vary: deep breathing, mindfulness, talk to someone

200

True or False: Compassion is only something we engage in with others... 

False - self-compassion is also very important!

200
What are coping skills?

What you do to reduce stress and improve your mental wellness

200

What is it helpful to be around horses when you're stressed ?

A horse's nervous system can indirectly regulate a human's nervous system through a process called "co-regulation." where the horse's calm presence and subtle cues can help a person feel calmer and more grounded, effectively assisting in regulating their own nervous system  

200

Name one thing you've done for yourself when you noticed your mental health decrease

Answers will vary 

300

True or False: All stress is bad

False: Good stress motivates us! 

Good stress examples: ride a roller coaster, compete in a game, driver's test, job interview etc...

300

List three coping skills

Listen to music, talk to someone, go for a walk, etc...

300

What's a main cause of stress within a horse?

They are prey animals and can be hunted

BONUS (100 pts)- What causes you stress?

300

What could you tell yourself if you become angry?

That anger is a positive and useful emotion, IF it is expressed appropriately. 

Think before you react/respond.  

Practice coping skills like deep breathing, counting, and self-talk, etc. 

Walk away and remove yourself from the situation if needed. 

400

True or False: There is a direct link between gut health and mental health

Hint: gut health refers to your digestive system 

True. When you're stressed, your digestive system pauses. 

Depression, anxiety, and stress can cause inflammation in your stomach

400

What is self-care? (Besides "taking care of yourself")

Self-care means taking time to preserve your physical, emotional and mental well-being. When used consistently, self-care can reduce stress, relieve uncomfortable emotions, and improve physical health.

400

If a horse is stressed out what are signs in their body that display that?

Eye fluttering, fast breathing, or holding their head higher than normal, restless, moving their head, pacing, whinnying or making other sounds

BONUS: (100 pts)- What do you notice changes in your body when you are stressed?

400

Protective Factors are things that contribute to mental health, and allow a person to be resilient in the face of challenges. Name two protective factors you hold... 

Answers will vary 

500

True or False: The youngest horse on the farm is Willie aka Sherbert

False! He is the smallest, but not the youngest. Waylon is the youngest

500

The act of recognizing and acknowledging the good things that happen, resulting in a state of appreciation and improved mood...

Gratitude 

500

What are the benefits of grooming a horse besides them getting clean

 Answers may vary: promotes blood flow in their body, the person grooming gets to experience stress release, builds rapport with a horse

500

How have you helped someone else before who was struggling with a problem related to their emotions?

Answers may vary