Mental health related ice breakers
Here are some mental health-related ice breaker ideas:
- Two Truths and a Lie: Mental Health Edition: Each person shares two true statements about their mental health and one false statement. The others have to guess which one is the lie.
Example: "I have anxiety, I love taking long walks to clear my head, and I'm a professional athlete." (The lie is being a professional athlete.)
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Mental Health Word Association: Have each person write down a word related to mental health (e.g., stress, happiness, anxiety). Then, ask each person to explain why they chose that word.
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Human Bingo: Mental Health Edition: Create bingo cards with different mental health-related traits or experiences (e.g., "has experienced depression," "has a therapist," "loves meditation"). Each person has to find someone who fits each of the characteristics and get them to sign the corresponding square.
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The Mental Health Mosaic: Divide the group into small teams and give each team a large piece of paper or whiteboard. Ask each team to create a collaborative mosaic that represents their mental health journey. Each team member can contribute to the mosaic by drawing or writing about their own experiences.
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Would You Rather: Mental Health Edition: Present two mental health-related scenarios and ask each person which one they would prefer. For example: "Would you rather have a constant sense of calm or be able to talk to anyone about your feelings?"
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Mental Health Superpower: Ask each person to imagine they have a superpower related to mental health (e.g., the ability to calm anyone's anxiety, the power to make anyone feel happy). Have them explain why they chose that superpower.
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The Mental Health Time Capsule: Ask each person to write down something they hope to achieve or overcome in the next year related to their mental health. Then, have them seal the note in an envelope and open it together at a future date to reflect on progress.
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Mental Health Myth-Busting: Prepare a list of common mental health myths (e.g., "you're weak if you need therapy," "mental health is just a phase"). Ask each person to share their thoughts on each myth and whether they agree or disagree.
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The Mental Health Chain: Have each person write down something they're grateful for related to their mental health (e.g., a supportive friend, a favorite self-care activity). Then, ask each person to pass their paper to the person on their right and have them add something they're grateful for. Continue until everyone has contributed to the chain.
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Mental Health Advice: Ask each person to share one piece of advice they've received or would give to someone struggling with their mental health. This can be a powerful way to build connections and foster a sense of community.
Remember to approach these ice breakers with sensitivity and respect, and be prepared to offer support and resources if needed.