Active learning ideas
This topic introduces the complex world of mental health, moving beyond simple definitions to look at how psychological well-being is a spectrum. Students examine how societal and cultural views on mental health have shifted over time, from historical 'madness' to modern medical and social models. They also explore the devastating impact of stigma and discrimination on individuals seeking help.
Activity 01
Display images and descriptions of how mental health was treated in different eras (e.g., trepanning, Victorian asylums, modern CBT). Students move in pairs to identify how the 'definition' of mental illness changed in each period.
How do we define mental health?
Activity 02
Students are given a list of 'labels' (e.g., 'depressed', 'eccentric', 'struggling'). They discuss in pairs how each label might change how a person is treated by their family, their boss, or the media, and then share their findings with the class.
How have societal views on mental illness changed?
Activity 03
Groups look at modern media (news headlines, movie clips, or social media posts) to find examples of mental health stigma. They must propose a 're-brand' of the message that reduces discrimination and promotes understanding.
What is the impact of stigma on individuals?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Mental health and mental illness are the same thing.
Everyone has mental health, just as everyone has physical health; mental illness refers to specific diagnosable conditions. A 'continuum' activity where students place different life events on a scale helps clarify this distinction.
Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.
Mental health issues are complex and can be caused by biological, psychological, and social factors. Peer-led research into the 'biopsychosocial model' helps students see the multiple causes behind psychological problems.
Methods used in this brief
Clinical Depression
Students investigate the characteristics, biological explanations, and psychological explanations of clinical depression. They will evaluate treatments such as CBT and antidepressant medication.
8 methodologies
Addiction
An exploration of the characteristics of addiction, including biological and psychological explanations. Students will assess the effectiveness of aversion therapy and self-management programmes.
8 methodologies