Name two things you could say if you called a helpline:
1.) I'm having a hard time
2.) I need to talk to somebody
3.) Today was tough
4.) I'm not sure what to say
Name one resource that may be helpful if someone is experiencing depression.
Citizen Advocates
Mental Health Association
Samaritan Outpatient Behavioral Health
Carthage Area Hospital Behavioral Health
Community Clinic of Jefferson County
How is physical health connected with our mental health?
All areas of our health interconnect. Striving for balance and wellness means paying attention to all aspects of our health.
When we are stressed, there is an impact on our physical body too, such as breathing, heart rate, hunger, sleep, etc.
It is okay to ask a friend if they are having a hard time?
If yes, name two reasons why.
It shows that we care; that we noticed and are concerned. • Let them know that they are not alone; may break the isolation. • Allows the person to talk about what is going on, which can be a step to getting help.
If we hear gossip or someone negatively talking about mental health, what can we do?
“What you’re saying is not helpful.” • “Everyone has mental health, so making fun of it hurts us all.” • “If what you’re saying is true, it sounds like they need our support, not judgment.”
How can talking about a hard time be helpful? Give two reasons.
1.) Process what's going on
2.) Share you feelings
3.) Work out what's bothering you
4.) Explore what you can do about it
Name a reason for each:
1.) Why would a person want a mental health diagnosis?
2.) Why would a person not want a mental health diagnosis?
1.) May make it easier to access info, resources, and treatment, and connect with other people.
2.) Don’t want the label or the treatment, stigma.
Why is self-care important?
Gives us a break so we can reenergize • Helps us cope when times are harder • Releases endorphins (happy hormones) • Reduces stress • Feels good • Can help us have more energy to be helpful to others
When supporting a friend, it is important to be non-judgmental and listen to them.
Give two reasons why.
It builds connection. • It creates safety. • Makes it more likely the friend will ask for help in the future. • It’s respectful.
Why is it important to take care of yourself while supporting other people? Give me an example of what this might look like.
Supporting someone else is hard, so we need to ensure we are taking care of our well-being so that we have the capacity to offer support to others. • Talking to our own support systems • Doing things that bring us joy • Setting healthy boundaries with the person we are supporting. This makes sure we are there for them, but in a way that lets us also take care of ourselves.
What is square breathing? Demonstrate
What can someone do if they are struggling with anxiety?
Talk to someone you trust about it.
Seek out resources like joining a support group
Try lots of ways to cope (more than once) and find out what works for you.
Medication is an option
Other than therapy and medication, what are things you can do regularly to improve your mental health?
Eat a balanced diet
Go outside
Exercise
Meditate
Why may a support group be helpful?
To get information. • To not be alone and have a sense of belonging. • Gives people a chance to share their experiences of struggle and recovery, which may help people learn to cope better. • Might give someone a sense of purpose or something to do.
What mental health diagnosis is the most common?
It is helpful to have a mix of different ways to cope during hard times. Some things should distract us, some things should allow us to reflect on our problem. Why?
Distractions give us a break from hard times. We need breaks to refuel our energy/spirit/mind. Some examples include hanging out with friends, video games, Netflix, etc.
Reflective activities give us time to think about what is going on. We need time to process our thoughts and feelings as part of moving through them. Some examples include talking, journaling, making art, etc.
Name three things you should ask a pharmacist or doctor when getting prescribed medication for a mental illness.
What are the side effects?
If I take drugs/alcohol or another medication while on this prescription, what will happen?
How long should I take it?
Will it make my birth control pill less effective?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
How often should I take it?
What time of the day should I take this?
Give one example of setting a healthy boundary and explain why boundaries are important.
• Asking people to stop distracting us when we are busy. • Letting friends know when we won’t be available. • Telling romantic partners how much affection we want or don’t want.
Helps us meet our own needs, helps develop our identity and independence, helps build healthy relationships, is respectful to others, enables us to use our energy in good ways to take care of ourselves, and enables us to be more supportive to others.
How can we support a friend who is having a hard time, but who has also made it clear they don’t want to talk?
Let them know that’s okay, but you’re there if they ever need to. • Share food. • Have fun together; laughter and distractions can help give someone a break from their hard time. • Share resources • Check in occasionally.
What month is Mental Health Awareness month?
May
What are grounding techniques/exercises?
Give an example of one.
Grounding is a practice that can help you pull away from flashbacks, unwanted memories, and negative or challenging emotions.
Grounding techniques are exercises that may help you refocus on the present moment to distract yourself from anxious feelings.
What percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life?
46%
(If you said any number between 40-50% you got it!)
How does your living environment affect your mental health?
Aesthetics - clutter, organization, colors
Sensory - lighting, temperature, smell, sounds
Safety
Comfortability
Explain how you would like a friend to respond when you open up about your mental health struggles?
*Freebee*
No wrong answer :)
What is the national suicide & crisis hotline number?
988