Grade 8 Health: Understanding Emotions and Mental Support

Understanding Emotions

Grade 8 Health: Lesson 1

Learning Target

I can explain the difference between normal emotions and feelings that last longer.

What Are Emotions?

Emotions are how we feel inside.

Everyone has many emotions in a single week.

Emotions can change quickly depending on the situation.

Activity: Emotion Timeline

1. Draw a simple 7-day timeline on your paper.

2. Label emotions you might feel each day (e.g., Happy, Tired, Nervous).

3. Notice how these emotions come and go throughout the week.

Temporary Emotions

Normal and short-term. They change as situations change.

Persistent Feelings

Last a long time, affect daily life, and may require support.

Persistent Negative Feeling States

What does 'Persistent' mean?

Lasts for weeks or longer.

Happens most days.

Interferes with school or relationships.

Activity: Gallery Walk

Rotate around the room to add ideas to the charts.

Topics:

Sleep or Energy Changes

Loss of Interest

Trouble Concentrating

When Feelings Affect Daily Life

Persistent feelings can impact many areas:

Schoolwork

Friendships

Energy

Motivation

Activity: Scenario Sorting

With a partner, sort the scenario cards into two categories:

Normal Ups and Downs

Needs Extra Support

Recognizing Warning Signs

Withdrawal from friends

Giving away belongings

Asking for help directly

MYTH: Asking for help is just 'attention seeking'. FACT: It means they need support.

Activity: Trusted Adult Map

Create a map identifying support roles in these three areas (No names required):

School Supports

Home Supports

Community Supports

Helping Safely: Key Rules

Tell a trusted adult immediately.

Stay with the person if it is safe.

Do not keep it a secret.

Final Reflection

If I was worried about someone, the safest thing I could do is...