There is a widespread, research-based understanding that the mental health of adolescents is very poor, worsened by the pandemic. This short JAMA article (Nov. 2022) underscores the urgent need to support adolescent mental health: CDC Report: Urgent Need to Address Teens’ Adverse Experiences During Pandemic.

The following lectures were developed in 2020 and 2021 in response to the mental health crisis among youth during the pandemic. Although some elements of the lessons relate to the pandemic, the lessons are universally relevant.

1. Mental Illness in Adolescents (40 slides)

2. Wellbeing (click for 29 google slides)
This lesson focuses on specific tools to maintain wellbeing and asks students to think about tools they are already using and suggests trying new tools.

3. Careers and Career Paths in Mental Health (click for 34 google slides)
Or download ppt here:

This lecture works well when you invite mental health professionals to attend the session and speak about their careers. You could invite psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, or other mental health professionals.

Download Careers in Mental Health Instructor’s Guide here: