Question

you will work on this in small groups and then review the discussion points with your teacher. be prepared to participate by sharing what you have learned
everyone deserves good mental health.

1. what are the four major components to achieving good mental health?

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mental health is balance, the ability to manage stress and achieve ones potential.

1. is it possible to be free of mental illness, and yet, not mentally healthy? why or why not?

stress is normal. but too much stress increases the risk for health problems, like depression.

1. what is stress? what are some things that can cause stress?

1. how do you know you are stressed - how do you experience it in your body? why is it important to be aware of your own personal stress indicators?

small improvements in nutrition, sleep, exercise and coping skills can help us better manage stress and achieve mental health.

1. what does a balanced meal include? why is it important?

1. how does food impact the brain?

1. how does sleep impact wellness?

1. what are some things we can do to improve our sleep?

Explanation:

1. Common major components of good mental health include emotional well-being (managing feelings), psychological well-being (positive thinking), social well-being (healthy relationships), and physical well-being (sleep, exercise).
2. Yes—mental health involves thriving, not just absence of illness. Someone might lack illness but feel unfulfilled, isolated, or unable to cope with stress, meaning they aren’t mentally healthy.
3. Stress is the body’s response to demands/challenges. Causes include work pressure, relationship issues, financial problems, or major life changes (e.g., moving, loss).
4. Stress signs: physical (headaches, fatigue), emotional (irritability, anxiety). Awareness helps take early action to prevent worsening stress.
5. Balanced meals include nutrients like omega-3s (brain health), vitamins, and protein. They stabilize mood, energy, and brain function, supporting mental resilience.
6. Food impacts the brain via nutrients: e.g., omega-3s build brain cell membranes; complex carbs boost serotonin (mood regulator); processed foods may increase inflammation linked to mood disorders.
7. Sleep restores the brain, regulates mood hormones (e.g., cortisol), and supports cognitive function. Poor sleep worsens stress, anxiety, and emotional stability.
8. Improve sleep: consistent schedule, dark/cool room, limit screen time before bed, avoid caffeine late in the day, and regular exercise.

Answer:

1. Emotional well-being, psychological well-being, social well-being, physical well-being
2. Yes; mental health requires thriving (not just no illness), so one might lack illness but feel unfulfilled or unable to cope
3. Stress is the body’s response to demands; causes include work pressure, relationship issues, financial stress
4. Physical signs (headaches, fatigue) or emotional signs (irritability); awareness prevents worsening stress
5. Nutrient-dense foods (omega-3s, vitamins); stabilizes mood and brain function
6. Nutrients (e.g., omega-3s) support brain structure/function; processed foods may increase inflammation
7. Restores brain function, regulates mood hormones; poor sleep worsens stress/anxiety
8. Consistent schedule, dark room, limit pre-bed screens, avoid late caffeine, exercise regularly