Understanding Emotions
What is emotional regulation, and why is it important?
The ability to monitor and manage emotional responses; important for well-being and making healthy decisions.
What is the difference between a coping skill and an escape behavior?
Coping = helps manage emotions long-term; escape = avoids or numbs them temporarily.
Why is the phrase “just get over it” harmful when talking about mental illness?
It minimizes someone’s struggle and discourages them from getting help.
What’s an example of a healthy boundary in a friendship?
Saying “no” to something you’re uncomfortable with, like lending money.
What does “protective factor” mean in mental health?
Something that helps prevent crises, like social support or stable housing.
Give an example of when feeling anxious might actually be helpful.
Anxiety can help you focus or prepare—like before a test or important event.
Describe how grounding techniques help during a panic attack
They focus your senses (touch, sight, sound) to bring you back to the present moment.
What’s a stereotype people often believe about schizophrenia that isn’t true?
That people with schizophrenia are violent or have “split personalities”—both are false.
How can you tell if someone is being passive-aggressive?
They may give silent treatment, be sarcastic, or say one thing but mean another.
Name one emotional, one physical, and one social wellness activity.
Emotional: journaling; Physical: walking; Social: joining a support group.
What’s the difference between shame and guilt?
Guilt = feeling bad about what you did; shame = feeling bad about who you are.
Name two cognitive coping skills that help with stress.
Reframing negative thoughts and using self-talk or thought-challenging exercises. (count any 2 healthy coping skills)
Why is it dangerous to confuse sadness with clinical depression?
Depression is more intense, lasts longer, and affects daily functioning.
What’s the difference between assertive and aggressive communication?
Assertive = respectful self-expression; Aggressive = forceful or disrespectful to others.
How can identifying your triggers help prevent a crisis?
You can plan ahead and use coping skills early before things escalate.
Describe how unexpressed emotions can affect your body or behavior.
They can cause stress, tension, or unhealthy coping like isolation or anger outbursts.
How might you adapt your coping skills when you're in public or a crowded place?
Use subtle strategies like breathing, repeating a calming phrase, or taking a break.
True or False: Mental health recovery means the person never struggles again.
False. Recovery includes ups and downs—it's about progress, not perfection.
You feel left out by a friend. What is a respectful way to bring it up?
Use “I” statements like “I felt hurt when I wasn’t invited…”
What is a SMART goal, and why is it helpful in recovery?
It’s Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound—helps keep goals realistic.
How might someone’s trauma history affect how they show emotion?
They may shut down, overreact, or avoid feelings because of past pain or triggers.
What are the risks of relying only on distractions to cope?
It may prevent you from addressing the root issue and can delay emotional growth
Explain the term “internalized stigma” and give an example.
It’s when someone believes negative stereotypes about themselves (e.g., "I'm weak for needing therapy").
What role does active listening play in resolving conflict?
It shows empathy, helps people feel heard, and reduces misunderstandings.
What’s the difference between a relapse and a setback?
A relapse is a return to full symptoms; a setback is a temporary challenge.