A sunny day in the park in front of the school, before the class. The other day, Clara was listening to a TV programme about mental health.
Hey Philip, what’s mental health?
It’s how we feel and think. Like, when we are happy or worried.
Ohh, so it’s about our feelings?
Yeah! And it’s okay to feel all sorts of feelings. Sometimes we feel happy and other times we feel sad or worried.
CLARA AND PHILIP GO TO THE LIBRARY TO LOOK FOR A BOOK ON MENTAL HEALTH OR EMOTIONS.
Look, Philip! This book says talking about feelings help us feel better.
That’s right! Talking helps us understand ourselves and how we are feeling inside.
I need this book! I’m going to borrow it.
What does “mental health” mean?
What does mental health mean?
How we feel and think is the correct answer because mental health relates to our emotional and mental well-being, including how we manage feelings, think, and interact with others in daily life. It’s about feeling good mentally and being able to handle life’s challenges effectively.
Clara and Philip return to class.
Today we will talk about our emotions and feelings, also known as mental health.
Taking care of our feelings is important, just like taking care of our body.
Good mental health helps us feel happy and calm, have healthy relationships and cope with life’s challenges.
And we can ask for help when we need it, right teacher?
Absolutely! Talking to someone we trust can make a big difference. Sharing our feelings with a friend or family member provides support and helps us feel less alone.
So is it enough to talk to friends?
Talking to friends can help, but it’s important to seek professional help if feelings are overwhelming or persistent.
Mental health specialists are: Pyschologist, Psychiastrist, Counsellors, Social workers.
Everyone has the right to see a therapist. Consulting a therapist does not mean to be crazy.
After the class Clara and Philip are playing with their friends at the playground, all smiling and laughing.
Being with friends and having fun makes us happy! It’s good for our hearts and minds.
This is also one way to take care of your mental health.
That’s right. Mental health disorders affect mood, thinking and behavior.
My mom says breathing and relaxing can calm us down when we are stressed.
Deep breaths help me feel better too! It’s like magic for our minds.
In the book, I read that other things also help. Like getting enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat healthy, enjoy free-make time for hobbies and above all,it helps to talk.
What can help to improve mental health?
What can help to improve mental health?
Regular exercise helps improve mental health by releasing endorphins, reducing stress, improving sleep and boosting self-esteem. It contributes to overall well-being and a positive outlook on life.
Filip and Clara sat down on a park bench in front of school.
Clara, here are some mental health disorders you should know about.
The most common mental health disorders are: Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Eating Disorders, OCD and ADHD.
Got it. Thanks for the info, Filip! The more we understand mental health disorders, the better we can support each other.
Clara is talking to her parents at dinner.
Today we’re not feeling our best. Work is tough and we’re barely getting through the day.
Today we talked about mental health at school. Make sure to take some time for yourselves and rest. It’s very important for our mental well-being.
Wow, thanks Clara. I hope you’re also taking care of your mental health. If something is ever bothering you, we are always here for you.
That is right, we are always here for you, Clara. Sharing our feelings helps us feel closer as a family.
You know, we are lucky that we can talk about anything in our family.
Isn’t it the same for everyone?
No, it’s not always the case for all families. Some teenagers can’t have these types of conversations with their family.
Remember, talking about feelings and being kind to ourselves helps us stay happy and strong!
Take care of your mental health!
What is important for good mental health?
What is important for good mental health?
Talking to friends or family about your feelings is important because it provides support, reduces stress, and helps you understand your emotions better. It also strengthens social connections, which is important for your mental well-being.