Causes and Risk Factors
Which of the following is an EMOTIONAL symptom of depression?
A) Increased energy
B) Feeling sad or hopeless
C) Constant excitement
D) Strong desire to socialize
B) Feeling sad or hopeless
Which of the following is a biological cause of depression?
A) Stress from school
B) Genetics
C) Peer pressure
D) Moving to a new city
B) Genetics
What's one supportive phrase you could say to a struggling friend?
"I'm here to listen."
Why is managing stress important for mental health?
It helps prevent bigger mental health problems.
Your friend says, "I'm tired of pretending everything's fine." What could you say?
Open-ended, example: You don't have to pretend with me.
Which is a physical symptom that might appear with anxiety?
A) Loss of interest in activities
B) Increase appetite
C) Racing heartbeat
D) Sleeping more than usual
C) Racing Heartbeat
Which environmental factor can increase the risk of anxiety?
A) Family conflict
B) Medical conditions
C) Low serotonin levels
D) A strong support system
A) Family conflict
True or False: You should immediately give advice to someone feeling anxious.
False
Which of the following is an example of managing stress in a healthy way?
A) Ignoring your feelings and bottling them up
B) Yelling at others when you feel overwhelmed
C) Taking deep breaths and talking to a trusted adult
D) Pretending nothing is wrong and keeping busy
C) taking deep breaths and talking to a trusted adult
You notice your classmate always looks worried and avoids class presentations. How might you offer support?
Open-ended, example: It's okay to be nervous, we can help each other.
True or False: Loss of interest in hobbies can be a warning sign of depression.
True
True or False: Only traumatic events cause depression.
False
What is more important when talking to someone struggling — giving solutions or listening?
Listening
What happens when stress is not managed over time?
It can lead to depression or anxiety.
Your friend stopped coming to soccer practice. What might you ask them?
Open-ended, example, I've missed seeing you at practice. Are you okay?
Which two symptoms might show that someone is feeling overwhelmed by anxiety?
A) Excitement and euphoria
B)Drowsiness and overeating
C) Increased laughter and hyperactivity
D)Trouble concentrating and restlessness
D) Trouble concentrating and restlessness
Which psychological factor can increase the risk of developing anxiety?
A) High self-confidence
B) Low self-esteem
C) Good physical health
D) Positive thinking
B) Low self-esteem
List two ways you can show you are actively listening.
Eye Contact, nodding, not interrupting, etc.
True or False: Mental health should only be cared for when problems arise.
True
A peer tells you they feel overwhelmed but don’t want to talk. How could you respond?
Open-ended, example, That's okay, I'm here whenever you're ready.
What is the main difference between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)?
A) MDD symptoms are milder but last longer than PDD symptoms.
B) PDD symptoms are severe and last only a few weeks.
C) MDD involves intense symptoms over a shorter period; PDD involves long-lasting, less severe symptoms.
D) MDD and PDD are just different names for the same condition.
C) MDD involves intense symptoms over a shorter period; PDD involves long-lasting, less severe symptoms.
Which combination lists three potential causes of depression or anxiety?
A) Brain chemistry, trauma, and social stressors
B) Healthy friendships, good sleep, and healthy eating
C) Winning awards, being optimistic, and exercising
D) Strong family support, teamwork, and hobbies
A) Brain chemistry, trauma, and social stressors
Create a short response you could give to a peer who is showing warning signs.
Open-ended, example: You’re not alone, I care about you.
Share one way you personally take care of your mental health with a healthy coping strategy.
Open-ended
You notice your friend Taylor has been wearing long sleeves even in hot weather and seems really distant lately. One day, Taylor quietly says,
"Sometimes it feels like the only way I can get the pain to stop is by hurting myself."
Open-ended but should include concern, active listening, encouraging them to seek help