Mental Health & The Law
What U.S. law protects employees with mental health conditions from job discrimination?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
True or False: Mental illness is viewed and treated the same in all cultures.
False – beliefs, stigma, and treatment vary greatly by culture.
What disorder is characterized by persistent low mood and loss of interest?
Major Depressive Disorder (Depression).
What hormone is commonly known as the “stress hormone”?
Cortisol.
What is self-care supposed to do for mental health?
Help you restore balance, reduce stress, and promote emotional well-being.
True or False: Employers must always grant any mental health-related request for time off.
False – only if it's considered a "reasonable accommodation."
In some cultures, mental illness may be seen as a spiritual issue rather than a medical one. Name one example.
Some Indigenous, South Asian, or African cultures may interpret mental illness as spiritual imbalance or ancestral influence.
Which anxiety disorder involves sudden episodes of intense fear without real danger?
Panic Disorder.
Chronic stress impacts which system of the body the most?
Nervous system (especially the brain) and immune system.
True or False: Binge-watching TV all day is always self-care.
False – it can become avoidance or numbing behavior.
What does FMLA stand for and how does it relate to mental health?
Family and Medical Leave Act – allows eligible employees to take unpaid leave for serious mental health conditions.
What term describes culturally specific ways mental distress is expressed (e.g., "ataque de nervios")?
Cultural-bound syndromes.
What is the difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorder?
Bipolar I includes full manic episodes, while Bipolar II involves hypomania and depression.
What part of the brain is responsible for the fight-or-flight response?
The amygdala.
What’s one way to know if a coping habit is actually harmful?
It leaves you feeling worse, drained, or more disconnected long-term.
What is a “reasonable accommodation” for mental health at work?
Adjustments like modified schedules, work-from-home, or a quieter workspace.
Which group often underutilizes mental health services due to stigma and systemic barriers in the U.S.?
Black, Asian, and Hispanic/Latinx communities.
What disorder involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors meant to reduce anxiety?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
True or False: Some stress is actually good for performance.
True. This is called eustress.
Name one self-care activity that supports long-term mental health.
Regular exercise, therapy, healthy eating, journaling, or sleep.
Under HIPAA, what is protected in relation to mental health?
Medical privacy – including therapy notes and diagnoses shared with healthcare providers.
Name one reason cultural competency is important in mental health care.
It ensures treatment is respectful, relevant, and more effective for diverse populations.
What is the general criteria mental health professionals use to diagnose conditions?
DSM-5 – Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition.
Prolonged stress can contribute to what physical health problems?
Heart disease, high blood pressure, weakened immunity, digestive issues.
What term describes habits like overworking, overspending, or emotional eating used to avoid feelings?
Self-sabotage or maladaptive coping.