Understanding Mental Wellbeing

Understand what is meant by ‘mental health’.

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Give a definition of ‘good’ mental health.

  1.1: ‘Good’ mental health, for example:

  • feeling good about yourself and your life
  • being able to cope with everyday stresses
  • maintaining good relationships with others
  • being able to manage emotions in a balanced way
• 1.2

  Give a definition of mental ill-health.

  1.2: Mental ill-health, for example:

  • a condition affecting thoughts, emotions, or behaviour negatively
  • can range from mild stress to severe mental illnesses like depression or anxiety
  • may impact daily life, work, or relationships

• 1.3

  Identify some common emotional states, which may be unpleasant to experience, but do not count as mental illness

  1.3: Common emotional states, which may be unpleasant to experience, for example:

  • feeling sad or upset after a disappointment
  • feeling nervous before a big event, like an exam
  • feeling frustrated when things go wrong
  • feeling lonely when away from friends or family

Understand how to look after own mental wellbeing.

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1

  Describe key features of a lifestyle that supports good mental health.

  2.1 Lifestyle that supports good mental health, for example:

  • healthy eating and drinking
  • regular exercise
  • good sleep
  • positive relationships
  • relaxation and hobbies
  • avoiding harmful habits
• 2.2

  State some key signs of deteriorating mental health.

  2.2 Deteriorating mental health, for example:

  • emotional signs
  • physical signs
  • behavioural changes
  • thinking patterns
• 2.3

  Give examples of positive ways to cope with stressful situations. 

  2.3 Ways to cope with stressful situations, for example:

  • talking to someone
  • relaxation techniques
  • time management
  • physical activity
  • seeking support

Understand how to support friends and family with mental health difficulties.

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1

  List the signs of poor mental health in others.

• 3.2

  Identify ways they can support positive mental health in others.

  3.2: Support positive mental health in others, for example:

  • be a good listener and offer a non-judgmental ear
  • show kindness, patience, and understanding
  • encourage them to talk about their feelings
  • suggest doing enjoyable activities together
  • offer help with small tasks they may find difficult
  • share information about mental health resources
  • encourage healthy habits like regular sleep, eating well, and staying active
• 3.3

  Give examples of situations when it is better to seek professional or emergency help rather than offer support themselves.

  3.3: Situations when it is better to seek professional or emergency help, for example:

  • if the person talks about wanting to harm themselves or others
  • if they mention feeling suicidal or making plans to end their life
  • when their mental health worsens despite your support
  • if you feel unable to handle the situation or are unsure how to help
  • when they are behaving in a way that poses a risk to their safety or
  • if they experience severe confusion or disorientation
  • in cases of extreme distress, such as panic attacks or breakdowns
  • if the person providing support initially feels unconfident/out of their depth/unable to provide support

Know about support for mental ill-health.

4.1: Support, for example:

• General Practitioner (GP)
• counsellors or therapists
• helplines
• community groups
• online resources
• workplace support
• charities and organisations

Assessment Criteria