Myth or Fact:
Stress can lead to serious health problems if not managed.
Chronic stress can contribute to conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and weakened immunity.
Being interrupted mid-sentence causes a person to shut down emotionally.
What is a trigger related to feeling unheard or disrespected?
You’re feeling overwhelmed by a strong emotion and need to process it.
What is journaling or talking to a therapist?
If something isn’t perfect, you see it as a total failure.
What is black-and-white thinking?
You think, “I don’t have time for self-care. It’s selfish to focus on myself.”
“Taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it helps me stay healthy and be there for others.”
Medication is the only effective treatment for mental health conditions.
While medication can be helpful, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support networks are also effective treatments.
Someone receives a compliment and immediately feels suspicious or doubtful.
What is a self-worth or trust-based trigger?
You’re feeling restless and can’t sit still.
What is engaging in physical activity, like dancing or jogging? breathing--repetative motion
You’re sure someone is mad at you, even though they haven’t said anything.
What is mind reading?
You feel guilty for taking a break and think, “I should always be productive.”
“Rest is productive too. Taking breaks helps me recharge and do better work later.”
Mental health conditions can affect physical health.
Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and weakened immune function.
Being asked to share in a group immediately brings on a tight chest and racing thoughts
What is a vulnerability or social anxiety trigger?
You feel overwhelmed by a long to-do list and don’t know where to start.
What is prioritizing tasks or breaking them into smaller steps?
You imagine the worst-case scenario happening—even when things are probably fine.
What is catastrophizing?
You think, “I can’t ask for help because it makes me look weak.”
"Asking for help shows strength and self-awareness, not weakness.”
You can’t help someone with a mental health condition unless you’re a professional.
While professionals play a key role, friends and family can provide crucial support by listening, being present, and encouraging treatment.
A specific smell instantly brings back painful memories and a sense of panic.
What is a sensory trigger?
You’re feeling sad and isolated after a tough day.
What is reaching out to a trusted friend or loved one for support?
Something good happens, but you instantly think, “That doesn’t count. It was just luck.”
What is discounting the positive?
You think, “I’m too busy to take care of my mental health.”
“Taking care of my mental health is just as important as my other responsibilities.”
You can recover from a mental health condition with the right treatment and support.
Many people recover or manage their mental health conditions effectively with therapy, medication, and support systems.
Hearing sudden loud yelling reminds someone of childhood arguments and causes their heart to race.
What is a past trauma trigger?
You’re angry after an argument and need to calm down before responding.
What is taking a walk or engaging in physical activity?
After one job interview doesn’t go well, you decide, “I’ll never get hired anywhere.”
What is overgeneralizing?
You think, “I’m the only one who feels this way. No one will understand.”
“Many people struggle with similar feelings. Reaching out can help me feel less alone.”