Lesson Plan

Myths vs. Facts Setup

Students will debunk common mental health myths by distinguishing between myths and facts, fostering empathy and understanding about mental health.

This lesson is crucial in correcting misinformation, reducing stigma, and promoting mental well-being by enabling students to critically evaluate mental health information.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Context Setting

10 minutes

Step 2

Interactive Myth-Busting Activity

20 minutes

Step 3

Group Discussion and Debrief

10 minutes

Step 4

Conclusion and Reflection

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

Mental Health Myths

Introduce the slide deck by welcoming students and providing an overview of what will be discussed. Emphasize that the aim is to debunk common mental health myths in a fun and interactive way.

What is Mental Health?

Discuss with the class what mental health means. Provide a simple definition and relate it to overall well-being. Encourage students to ask questions and share their initial thoughts.

Myth 1: 'Mental health problems are a sign of weakness'

Present the first myth that mental health issues are a sign of weakness. Discuss why this is a common misconception, and then provide the factual response that mental health issues are complex and can affect anyone.

Myth 2: 'People with mental health issues cannot succeed academically or socially'

Address another common myth, such as the one about academic or social success. Clarify that many individuals with mental health challenges lead successful and fulfilling lives.

Myth 3: 'Mental health issues are not treatable'

Present the third myth to further expand on common misconceptions. Engage students in discussing why this myth might exist and provide the correct information.

Recap & Resources

Summarize the key points discussed in the session. Encourage students to remember that reliable information and understanding are crucial for mental health awareness.

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Quiz

Fact or Fiction

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Slide Deck

Discussion Prompts

Introduce the discussion slide deck by explaining that each slide contains a prompt to help students reflect on mental health myths before our group discussion begins. Encourage students to think about these questions and write down their thoughts if needed.

1. Reflecting on Myths

Present the first discussion prompt. Ask students to consider which mental health myth surprised them the most and why.

2. Impact of Misinformation

Present the next discussion prompt on the impact of misinformation. Encourage students to think about how misconceptions can influence someone's well-being.

3. Spreading Accurate Information

Next, direct the discussion to spreading accurate information. Ask students for ideas on how they can help debunk these myths in their community.

4. Personal Connections

Question on personal connections. This slide seeks to have students reflect on any personal encounters with mental health myths and share their feelings.

5. Role of Media

Present the final prompt on media influence. Ask the class to discuss how media can both contribute to and help debunk mental health myths.

Additional Thoughts

Conclude with a slide that invites students to share any additional thoughts or insights they have gathered from reflecting on the prompts.

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Mind Matters: Busting Mental Health Myths

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Kristen Federico

Tier 1
For Districts
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