GUIDING QUESTIONS
1. What is “normal”? Is there such a thing as a “normal” family? Is “normal” the same thing as “perfect?"
2. Can you think of any recent movies or television shows that are exploring the idea of a “new normal?” How do they redefine "normal" family dynamics?
3. What does the term 'mental health' mean to you?
4. What do you think are some things that can impact a person's mental health?
5. How is mental illness viewed? What are some words used to describe mental health conditions?
6. What is social stigma, and how does it apply to mental illness?
7. Why do you think there might still be social stigma around individuals with a mental illness?
8. Some celebrities have come to the forefront and shared about their mental health. Do you think this helps break down the social stigma surrounding mental illness? Why or why not?
9. How does social stigma affect people’s perception and engagement in treatment for addiction.
10. How is addiction portrayed in the media?
11. Does the language we use when talking about mental health and mental illness matter? How much? What are some examples of positive language and negative language?
12. What are some ways to support a friend or loved one who has a mental illness or addiction?
ACTIVITIES
1. What is Normal?: Think about your idea of “normal” as it pertains to your family. Then, interview different members of your family, from multiple generations if possible, to find out their idea of “normal." Has that idea evolved or changed over the generations? Write a short personal essay, create a piece of visual art, or write a poem or song expressing what your family’s idea of “normal” has come to be.
2. Calming Box: Calming boxes (or self-soothing boxes) are made up of a variety of items to distract and soothe in times of anger and emotional distress. Each family member or friend collects items in their individual boxes that are personally meaningful. Most items can be inexpensively found at the supermarket, dollar store, or around the house.
3. Practice Gratitude: People who are grateful benefit from less stress, a general sense of well-being, improved cognition and social performance, and reduced risks for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders.
Gratitude Journal - Have each family member or friend write down 3 things they are grateful for. When maintaining these thoughts daily in a journal, the user can look back and see how their thoughts have changed over time.
Gratitude Tree - A gratitude tree can be constructed from a paper towel roll or cut from construction paper. Fill out the blank leaves with what you’re grateful for. Alternately, you can also create gratitude prompts on the leaves and attach them to the tree.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS FOR SELF CARE
1. Mindfulness Meditation: There are many free apps in the Google Play and Apple App stores. Find an app that works for you and practice daily.
2. Exercise: Daily exercise, even a less rigorous endeavor like walking, can improve mood and decrease anxiety.
3. Read: Make time to read. If you've experienced trauma, a good book to start with is The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van der Kolk. It dives into trauma informed Yoga practice.
DISCLAIMER: These questions and activities are to provide family and peer discussion and education. The information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or psychological condition. If you think someone is too fragile to be part of the discussion, please have them consult a mental health care provider for individual advice regarding the situation.
