School social worker
Parents/Guardians
Therapist
Crisis hotlines
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.
Say something like...
“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.”
Process what’s going on: share your feelings, work out what’s bothering you, and explore what you can do about it
Feel better
Don’t feel alone
Feel cared for
Create a connection between people
May make it easier to access info, resources, and treatment, and connect with other people.
Don’t want the label or the treatment, stigma.
We get to decide for ourselves whether we seek out a diagnosis. Either way, we deserve to be treated with respect.
Self-care is important because it:
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
It builds connection.
It creates safety.
Makes it more likely the friend will ask for help in the future.
The Blue Blur
What are your favorite ways to cope with difficult emotions?
Deep breathing
Exercise
Drawing/Creating
Talking to a friend
Watching my favorite movie/show
Talk to someone you trust about it.
Try lots of ways to cope (more than once) and find out what works for
you.
Any answer is a GREAT answer!
Here are some examples:
Asking people to stop distracting us when we are busy
Letting friends know when we won’t be available
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.
Check in occasionally
Who is Sonic's close friend?
Tails
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.
If we only ever distract ourselves, it is harder to work through a problem, but if we only ever think about a problem, it can be really draining. We need a mix to bring balance.
How is mental health depicted in movies/shows?
*Discussion*
Any answer is right!
How much exercise should a teen get a day?
One hour a day
What is Jack Black's popular phrase in the movie Minecraft?
What do you have control over when feeling overwhelmed?
My actions/behavior
My thoughts
My emotions
If you were prescribed medication, what questions might you ask your doctor about the medication?
What are the side effects?
Why am I taking this?
Are there any alternatives to taking this medication?
Is this the lowest dose I can take for it to be effective?
What are the expected results?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
How often should I take it?
What time of the day should I take this?
What foods increase your energy?
Fruits, vegetables, and protein
What may be a reason that you can not help your friend through mental health struggles?
*Discussion*
They are at risk of hurting themselves
You aren't available
You need an adult's advice
What are your biggest takeaways from our time together?
Any answer is a GREAT answer!