Signs and Symptoms
Characterized as a feeling of being “on edge”, racing thoughts, or overwhelming worry
What is Anxiety
What is an example of an UNHELPFUL behavior?
what is minimizing feelings, dismissing, trying to “fix”, overreacting, criticism, etc
Same day, in person option for a crisis
What is on campus health/mental health services (ex UCHS at Northeastern)
More than half of college students nationally meet the criteria for at least one mental illness.
Fact. In 2023, a national survey reported that more than 60% met the criteria for at least one mental illness, which is a 50% increase in the past 10 years.
Your friend is having a panic attack. Name 3 things you can do to help!
What is get them to a quiet room, help them breathe, ask if they need anything, stay with them, stay calm, speak kindly and simply, etc
Lasting feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss in motivation
What do you think you should do if the problem seems beyond your capability?
What is refer to trusted adult or trained mental health professional
Can help with stress related to grades, offer accommodations for mental health diagnoses
What is advising or disability support offices
Teenagers mostly do not experience poor mental health and often are mostly just experiencing mood swings due to hormonal fluctuations.
Myth. Half of all mental health issues actually begin to show by age 14.
A friend sends you a text saying “they can’t do this anymore”, what should you do?
What is take it seriously, stay with them either in person or over the phone, call 911 or 988
Increased irritability, substance use, overworking, or changes in eating/sleeping habits are examples of what?
What are behavioral changes
The first step in approaching someone you are concerned about
What is talk to them privately and show genuine care
On campus staff trained to spot signs and symptoms and offer help
Resident Assistants (RAs)
There is not just one cause of poor mental health.
Fact. Mental illness can be due to biological factors, life experiences and past trauma, family history, etc
You see someone hyperventilating, crying, and visibly upset, what might be happening?
What is a panic attack
Headaches, stomachaches, or other pains in the body can be examples of?
What are physical symptoms/emotional distress
Listening without interruption or judgment
What is Active Listening
A meditation and mindfulness app that many universities offer free memberships for
Headspace
People with poor mental health are often much more violent.
Myth. “Only 3%–5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals living with a serious mental illness” - SAMHSA
Your roommate has been quieter, more fatigued, and has isolated themselves from group hangouts and even small talk at home. Their room is messy and they have also seem to have a much smaller appetite. What can you do in this scenario?
What is listen and show no judgment, consistently check in, help with daily chores and tasks, invite them to smaller activities such as walks or self care routines, suggest professional care if appropriate
Can show up as avoiding roommates/isolating, blowing off friends, skipping class, etc
What is Social Withdrawal
An example of a supportive communication style (ex. I’ve noticed ____)
What is an I statement
Suicide and Crisis Helpline number
988, can also text HELLO to 741741!
The suicide lifeline (988) only responds to suicide-related cases.
Myth. The suicide lifeline offers national, one-on-one support for all mental health, suicide, and substance abuse-related situations and is not limited to just one.
Your teammate has been keeping to themselves, complaining of headaches, and seems distracted during practice. How would you respond?
What is ask if they are okay, offer to help them seek support, suggest they take time for self care, etc