To develop an understanding of the stigma surrounding mental health problems and the impact stigma and discrimination have on those who would seek help, groups investigate the symptoms of and risk factors associated with eight different disorders. They then develop a presentation to share what they have learned with the full class.

Concepts

suicide, healthy habits, mental health, depression, self assessment, self esteem, empathy, discrimination

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Instructional Ideas

• The teacher reference linked in the Included Materials section of this review provides instructors with additional activities and links to related materials
• Have class members research the support services available on campus and in the community, and they post their findings on the classroom wall
  

Classroom Considerations

• The project is designed to provide an overview of the disorders studied over the course of the unit
• Part of a series of 25 resources in the Mental Health/Social-Emotional Skills unit
• Coordinate the lesson with the school counseling staff and ask them to be alert to class members who show signs of distress

Pros

• The project encourages learners to not only learn about various mental disorders but also to develop empathy towards those people

Cons

• None