Mental Health basics
What is the term for a prolonged period of sadness that interferes with daily life
depression.
How many hours of sleep do most adults need per night?
7–9 hours
What physical reaction is often called the “fight-or-flight” response?
Fight-or-flight response → Increased heart rate, faster breathing, adrenaline release.
What is a vision board used for?
To visualize goals and stay motivated.
Name one relaxation technique to reduce stress.
deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation.
True or False — Mental illness is less common than physical illness.
False — Mental illness is very common; 1 in 5 adults experience it each year.
True or False — Exercise can improve your mood.
True — Exercise releases endorphins and boosts mood.
True or False — Stress is always harmful to your health.
False — Small amounts of stress can be motivating; chronic stress is harmful.
True or False — Setting SMART goals helps with self-improvement.
True
True or False — Talking to a friend can be a form of coping.
True — Social support is a healthy coping strategy.
Name one common symptom of anxiety.
racing thoughts, sweating, rapid heartbeat, excessive worry, restlessness.
What is one benefit of journaling?
Helps process emotions, reduce stress, and improve self-awareness.
What hormone is commonly released during stress?
Cortisol (also adrenaline, depending on context).
What does the “G” in SMART goals stand for?
Goals
What is mindfulness?
Being fully present and aware without judgment.
What does PTSD stand for?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Name two foods that are considered “brain healthy.”
blueberries, salmon, walnuts, leafy greens.
Name two healthy ways to manage anger.
taking deep breaths, walking away, exercising, journaling, talking it out calmly.
Name one app that promotes mindfulness or meditation.
Headspace, Calm, Insight Timer.
What type of coping involves solving the problem directly?
Problem-focused coping
Explain the difference between mental health and mental illness.
Mental health = state of well-being. Mental illness = conditions that disrupt thinking, mood, or behavior.
Explain how daily routines support mental wellness.
Routines reduce stress, create stability, and build consistency for better mental health.
Explain the difference between stress and anxiety.
Stress = response to an external challenge or demand. Anxiety = persistent worry or fear that may remain even without a clear stressor.
Explain how self-reflection contributes to personal growth.
It helps you identify strengths/weaknesses and make intentional improvements.
Name 3 healthy coping strategies for dealing with strong emotions.
exercise, journaling, talking to a therapist, breathing techniques, creative expression.