📘
📘 Module: Mental
Health Law, Rights, and Protections
(UK,
USA, Australia & Worldwide)
Module Overview
This
module explains the main mental health laws and protections in the UK,
USA, Australia, and worldwide.
It is designed for students, staff, volunteers, managers, and trainees
working in education, health, social care, or community settings.
The
module focuses on:
Rights
Dignity
Fair treatment
Protection from
discrimination
🎯 Learning Outcomes
By
the end of this module, learners will be able to:
Understand key mental
health laws in different countries
Recognise the rights
of people using services
Mental Health & Physical
Health
Mental health is no different
from physical health
Everybody has mental health
Everybody needs support at times
Mental health exists on a continuum
(it can be good, okay, or poor at different times)
✅ Ask for
help from professionals if needed
1. Understanding Physical Health
Physical health is how well your
body works.
Good physical health helps you:
Have energy ⚡
Stay strong 💪
Avoid illness 🩺
Ways to stay physically healthy:
Eat a balanced diet (fruits 🍎, vegetables 🥦, proteins 🍗)
Drink enough water 💧
Exercise regularly (walking 🚶, stretching 🤸, sports 🏀)
Rest and sleep well 😴
Keep clean (wash hands 🧼, brush teeth 🪥, shower 🚿)
Avoid smoking 🚭, alcohol 🍷, or drugs 💊
2. Mental and Physical Health
Together
Your body and mind affect each
other:
Poor physical health can make you
feel sad, anxious, or tired
Poor mental health can make you
feel weak, sleepy, or sick
✅ Taking
care of both is important for overall wellbeing
We can now move into emotions,
common mental illnesses, and support strategies next.
Do you want me to continue with emotions
first, as the next section?
🧠 What is Mental Health?
If you feel stressed, tired, or sick, your mental health can be affected.
Mental health is:
A state of overall well-being 🌈
Includes emotional, psychological, and social aspects
Feeling good, functioning well, and having a sense of purpose
Dynamic and fluctuating 🔄
Like physical health, mental health exists on a continuum
We can have periods of good mental health and times when we struggle
More than the absence of mental illness ❌💭
Not having a diagnosed mental illness doesn’t automatically mean you are
mentally healthy
You might still feel stressed, sad, or anxious
Essential for daily life 🏠💼
Helps us manage stress
Supports building healthy relationships
Enables us to work, study, and contribute to our communities
Integral to brain function 🧠
A healthy mind supports thinking, learning, memory, and decision-making
🌟 What Influences Mental Health?
Mental health is influenced by many factors, including:
Biological factors 🧬
Genes, brain chemistry, or family history of mental health conditions
Psychological factors 🧠💭
How we cope with problems
Self-esteem and confidence
Social factors 👥
Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
Support networks
Environmental factors 🌳🏙️
Living conditions, stress at home or work, major life changes
❌ Mental Health is NOT:
Simply being happy all the time 🙂
Life has challenges and difficult emotions
Mental health is about managing feelings, not constant happiness
The same as resilience 💪
Resilience is the ability to bounce back after difficulties
It helps mental health but is only one part of it
A fixed state 🔄
Mental health can change over time due to stress, life events, or other
factors
⚠️ What is Mental Illness?
Mental illness is:
A health condition that affects the mind, thoughts, feelings, and behavior
It can make it harder to cope with daily life, work, school, or
relationships
Mental illnesses are common and can happen to anyone
Mental illness is treatable, and people can recover or manage it with the
right support
🧠 Mental Illness A–Z: Types and What They Mean
Mental illness is a diagnosable health condition that affects thoughts,
emotions, or behavior. It is not a weakness, it is a medical condition, and it
is treatable with support, therapy, and sometimes medication.
A – Anxiety Disorders 😰
Feeling very worried, nervous, or scared most of the time
Can include panic attacks, phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder
Affects sleep, concentration, and daily life
B – Bipolar Disorder ⚡
Mood swings between very high energy/happiness (mania) and very low mood
(depression)
Can affect sleep, thinking, and behavior
Treatable with therapy and medication
C – Cognitive Disorders 🧩
Problems with thinking, memory, or decision-making
Includes conditions like dementia or delirium
Can affect daily functioning
D – Depression 😢
Persistent sadness, low energy, and lack of interest in things you usually
enjoy
Can affect sleep, appetite, concentration, and motivation
Treatable with therapy, support, and medication
E – Eating Disorders 🍽️
Problems with food, eating habits, or body image
Includes anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder
Can affect physical and mental health
F – Factitious Disorders 🎭
Faking or causing symptoms intentionally to get attention or care
Rare but important to understand
Requires professional help
G – Gender Dysphoria ⚧
Feeling distress when your gender identity does not match the sex assigned
at birth
Can affect mental well-being
Support includes counseling, social support, and sometimes medical care
H – Hoarding Disorder 📦
Difficulty throwing away items, causing clutter that disrupts living spaces
Can affect safety, relationships, and daily life
I – Impulse Control Disorders 🔥
Difficulty controlling urges that may harm oneself or others
Includes conditions like kleptomania or pyromania
J – … (Some letters may not have common mental illnesses; we can skip or
combine with related ones, e.g., “J” can include “Job-related stress
disorders”)
K – … (similar approach)
L – Learning Disorders 📚
Problems with learning skills like reading, writing, or math
Includes dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia
Can co-occur with other mental health challenges
M – Mood Disorders 🌦️
Includes depression, bipolar disorder, and cyclothymia
Affects emotions and energy levels
N – Neurodevelopmental Disorders 🧠
Conditions present from childhood affecting development
Includes autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities
Can co-occur with mental illnesses
O – Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 🔄
Repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions)
Can interfere with daily life
Treatable with therapy and sometimes medication
P – Personality Disorders 🪞
Patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are different from
cultural expectations
Can affect relationships and work
Includes borderline, narcissistic, and antisocial personality disorders
Q – … (rare; can note “Quiet depression” or “Quasi-psychotic symptoms”)
R – PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) 🎖️
Happens after experiencing trauma
Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and hyper-alertness
Treatable with therapy and support
S – Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders 🌀
Affects thinking, perception, and reality testing
Includes hallucinations or delusions
Can be managed with therapy and medication
T – Trauma-Related Disorders 💔
Includes acute stress disorder and PTSD
Can result from accidents, abuse, or disasters
U – Unspecified Mental Disorders ❓
Symptoms of mental illness that don’t fit into a specific category
Professional assessment required
V – … (can include “Vulnerability-related disorders,” e.g., stress
vulnerability)
W – Worry Disorders 😟
Excessive and uncontrollable worry about daily life
Related to generalized anxiety disorder
X – … (rare; can note “Xenophobia-related anxiety” or anxiety about social
situations)
Y – Youth Mental Health Challenges 👶
Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD in children and teens
Early support improves outcomes
Z – … (can note “Zoning out / dissociative disorders”)
Dissociation, feeling detached from reality or self
Can occur after trauma or stress
✅ Key points:
Mental illnesses are treatable.
Everyone can experience mental health challenges, even without a
diagnosable illness.
Mental health and mental illness are related but not the same.
Early support, therapy, social networks, and accommodations make a huge
difference.
🧠 Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
Level 2 Easy Read Module
🌟 Key Message
Mental health is important for everyone.
Everyone can have good and poor mental health.
Mental illness is not weakness.
Asking for help is normal and safe.
Support works best when it is empathetic, non-judgmental, and safe.
💡 Understanding Mental Health
Mental health affects thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and reactions.
Good mental health helps you cope with daily life, learn, work, and build
relationships.
Poor mental health or mental illness can make daily life harder.
Mental health exists on a continuum – it can change over time.
🧩 Factors Affecting Mental Health
Mental health is influenced by:
Biological factors: genes, brain chemistry
Psychological factors: coping skills, self-esteem
Social factors: family, friends, support networks
Environmental factors: stress, work, living conditions
Mental health is not:
Just being happy all the time
The same as resilience (but resilience helps)
Fixed – it can improve or worsen over time
🏥 Understanding Mental Illness
Mental illness is a diagnosable health condition.
It affects thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Causes can be complex: genetic, biological, psychological, or
environmental.
Mental illness is not a choice and not a flaw.
Treatment may include therapy, medication, and support.
Mental illness is different from bad days or stress.
🆘 How to Support Someone
1. Take Them Seriously ✅
Listen carefully when they share their feelings
Validate their emotions: “I hear you” / “That sounds hard”
Avoid dismissing or minimizing their struggles
2. Offer Support 💬
Ask if they want to talk
Be patient and non-judgmental
Let them know you are there for them
3. Respect Boundaries 🚧
Don’t force someone to talk
Respect their choices
4. Prioritize Safety 🛡️
Safety comes first – theirs and yours
Seek professional help if there’s risk of harm
Know when to involve trained services
5. Know Resources 📌
Be aware of local mental health services
Encourage professional help when needed
🌍 Mental Health Challenges Today
Hidden struggles: not everyone shows how they feel
Pandemic impact: isolation and lack of access worsened mental health
Global stressors: economic and social challenges increase anxiety and
depression
📝 Key Considerations
Empathy & Patience: People may struggle to express feelings
Validation: Acknowledge their emotions even if you don’t fully understand
Safety & Support: Know when to involve professionals
🧭 Everyday Guidance
Mental health is everyday, ongoing, and normal
Support doesn’t require being a professional
A listening ear and guidance toward help can save lives
Confidentiality is important, except when safety is at risk
🌟 Key Concepts
Mental Health
Everyone has mental health.
It affects how we think, feel, and behave.
Mental health can be good, poor, or change over time.
Positive mental health involves resilience, coping skills, and healthy
relationships.
Mental Illness
A diagnosable medical condition affecting thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
Examples: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia,
eating disorders.
Requires professional support and treatment.
Mental illness is not weakness or a choice.
You can have good mental health even with mental illness, and vice versa.
💬 Everyday Impacts of Mental Ill-Health
Affects daily life, including socializing, work, school, and personal care.
Can make motivation and routines difficult.
Heightened sensitivity to stimuli and emotional triggers.
Stigma and discrimination increase isolation and stress.
Supporting someone:
Use clear and accessible communication.
Empower them to make their own choices.
Show empathy and patience.
Validate their feelings without judgment.
Suggest actions rather than force them.
Prioritize safety for everyone.
🌍 Gender, Stigma, and Substance Use
Men may be more likely to die by suicide; women may self-harm more or
experience anxiety disorders.
Fear of stigma prevents people from seeking help.
Some may use alcohol or drugs to cope — approach this with empathy.
📘 Mental Illness Awareness & Suicide
Prevention
Awareness helps reduce stigma and encourage seeking help.
Recognize warning signs and offer support.
Provide access to hotlines and professional services.
Key factors: early intervention, destigmatization, accessible care,
community support.
📝 Practical Support Tips
Listen without judgment 👂
Validate feelings ✅
Guide towards professional help 🏥
Respect confidentiality 🔒
Be patient and understanding ⏳
Celebrate small achievements 🌈
Set boundaries for safety 🚫
🔠 A–Z Guide to Mental Illnesses
Each entry includes:
Name
Simple definition
Signs / symptoms
Support strategies
Symbols/icons for easy recognition
Example entries:
A – Anxiety Disorders
Feeling extremely worried, nervous, or scared.
Symptoms: racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping.
Support: listen, reassure, encourage professional help.
B – Bipolar Disorder
Mood swings between very high (mania) and very low (depression).
Symptoms: extreme energy, poor judgment, sadness, or hopelessness.
Support: avoid judgment, offer routine, support treatment plan.
C – Conduct Disorder
Behavioral condition often seen in children/teenagers.
Symptoms: aggression, rule-breaking, lying, or stealing.
Support: consistent guidance, therapy, patience, positive reinforcement.
Slide 10 – Other Therapy Types
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Helps manage emotions and relationships
Often used for self-harm, anger, or emotional crises
Family Therapy
Helps improve family communication and support
Group Therapy
Sharing experiences with others who understand
(Symbols: 👥 for group, 🏠
for family, 🧠 for DBT)
Slide 11 – Medication
Can help manage symptoms
Examples: antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds, mood stabilizers
Prescribed by a doctor 🧑⚕️
Works best with therapy 💬
Slide 12 – Coping and Self-Care
Get enough sleep 🛌
Eat healthy food 🍎
Exercise regularly 🏃♂️
Take breaks and relax 🧘
Talk to someone you trust 👂
Practice hobbies and interests 🎨
Slide 13 – Supporting Others
Listen without judgment 👂
Ask open questions: "How are you feeling?" 💬
Offer help and guide to professionals 🧑⚕️
Respect their pace and boundaries ⏳
Safety is important 🚨
Slide 14 – Suicide Awareness
Talking about suicide does not encourage it
Signs someone might need help:
Feeling sad, anxious, or angry all the time
Feeling hopeless or in pain
Talking about hurting themselves
Who to contact: family, friends, mentors, doctor, counsellor
Slide 15 – Safe Communication Tips
Give full attention 👀
Focus on them, not yourself
Write down important info if needed 📝
Keep information private 🔒
Seek help if you are worried about safety
Slide 16 – Everyone Needs Support
Mental health can change over time
Support is not weakness ✅
Small achievements are important 🌈
You are not alone 🤝
Slide 17 – Key Takeaways
Mental health is everyone’s concern
Mental illness is treatable
Empathy, patience, and listening help
Safety first for everyone
Resources are available
Mental Illness A–Z (Easy Read
Version)
A – Anxiety Disorders
Feeling very worried or nervous
all the time
Can affect sleep, focus, and
daily life
Examples: Generalized Anxiety
Disorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias
Support: Therapy, medication,
coping strategies 🧠💬💊
B – Bipolar Disorder
Mood changes from very high
(manic) to very low (depressed)
Can affect energy, sleep, and
decision-making
Support: Therapy, medication,
routine management 🧠💊🗓️
C – Conduct Disorder
Difficulty following rules and
managing behavior
Can involve aggression or
breaking laws
Support: Therapy, family support,
positive routines 👥🏠
D – Depression
Feeling very sad, tired, or
hopeless
Can affect sleep, appetite,
concentration, and motivation
Support: Therapy, medication,
self-care 🧠💬💊
E – Eating Disorders
Problems with food, body image,
or weight
Examples: Anorexia, Bulimia,
Binge Eating
Support: Therapy, nutrition
guidance, medical care 🍎🧠💬
F – Fetal Alcohol Spectrum
Disorder (FASD)
Brain and behavioral changes
caused by alcohol exposure in the womb
Can affect memory, attention, and
social skills
Support: Therapy, educational
support, routines 👶🧠🏫
G – Generalized Anxiety Disorder
(GAD)
Persistent worry about many
things
Physical symptoms: headache,
stomach upset, tense muscles
Support: Therapy, relaxation
techniques, medication 🧘💬💊
H – Hoarding Disorder
Difficulty throwing things away
Can cause clutter and stress
Support: Therapy, organization
skills, family support 📦🧠🏠
I – Insomnia (Sleep Disorder)
Trouble falling or staying asleep
Can affect mood, focus, and
energy
Support: Sleep routines, therapy,
medical help 🛌💤💊
J – Juvenile Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar symptoms in children or
teens
High and low moods affect school
and relationships
Support: Therapy, medication,
family guidance 🧑🏫💬💊
K – Kleptomania
Urge to steal without need or
reason
Can cause distress and trouble
with the law
Support: Therapy, coping skills,
support groups 🛍️💬👥
L – Learning Disabilities &
Mental Health
Learning disability may co-occur
with mental health problems
Examples: Dyslexia, ADHD,
Dyspraxia
Support: Therapy, tailored
teaching, support groups 📚🧠💬
M – Mood Disorders
Includes depression and bipolar
disorder
Affect emotional states and daily
life
Support: Therapy, medication,
lifestyle changes 🧠💊💬
N – Narcissistic Personality
Disorder (NPD)
Difficulties with empathy,
self-image, and relationships
Support: Therapy, relationship
guidance 🧠💬👥
O – Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
(OCD)
Repetitive thoughts or actions
(obsessions and compulsions)
Can interfere with daily life
Support: CBT, therapy, medication
🧠💬💊
P – PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder)
After experiencing trauma
Symptoms: flashbacks, anxiety,
nightmares
Support: EMDR, therapy, safe
environment 🧠💬👂
Q – Quick Mood Swings
Rapid changes in mood
Can affect emotions and behavior
Support: Therapy, mindfulness,
support network 🧠💬🧘
R – Reactive Attachment Disorder
(RAD)
Trouble forming safe attachments
in childhood
Can affect trust and
relationships
Support: Therapy, nurturing
environment, routines 👶🏠💬
S – Schizophrenia
Changes in thinking, perception,
and behavior
May involve hallucinations or
delusions
Support: Medication, therapy,
community support 🧠💊💬
T – Tourette Syndrome
Involuntary tics or sounds
Can affect social life and
confidence
Support: Therapy, education
support, understanding environment 👂🧠💬
U – Unspecified Mental Health
Conditions
Symptoms don’t fit one category
Support: Therapy, medical
evaluation, support networks 🧠💬💊
V – Viral-Linked Neuropsychiatric
Disorders
Mental health problems linked to
viral infections (rare)
Symptoms: mood, behavior,
cognition
Support: Therapy, medical
monitoring 🧠💊💬
W – Withdrawal &
Substance-Related Disorders
Problems from stopping drugs or
alcohol
Can affect mood, body, and
thinking
Support: Therapy, medical help,
peer groups 🧠💊👥
X – Xenophobia-Related Anxiety
Anxiety linked to fear of others
or social stress
Support: Therapy, social support,
education 🧠💬👥
Y – Youth Mental Health Issues
Mental health conditions
affecting children and teens
Examples: ADHD, anxiety,
depression
Support: Therapy, school support,
family guidance 🧑🏫💬👪
Z – Zoning Out / Dissociation
Disorders
Feeling disconnected from reality
or self
Support: Therapy, grounding
exercises, safe environment 🧠💬🏠
Easy Read Mental Health Module (Level 1 & 2)
Slide / Section Layout
Slide 1 – Title
Good Mental Health and Mental Illness
Everyone has mental health
Sometimes people become unwell
Help and support are available 💙
Slide 2 – Mental Health vs. Mental Illness
Mental health = emotional, psychological, social well-being
Mental illness = diagnosable condition affecting thoughts, feelings, or
behavior
Both affect daily life and can be supported 🧠💬💊
Slide 3 – Physical and Mental Health
Body and mind affect each other
Looking after your body helps your mind:
Exercise
Sleep well
Eat healthy
Both are real, both need care 💪🛌🥗
Slide 4 – Signs You Might Need Help
Feeling sad, anxious, or angry all the time
Feeling unwell or in pain
Thinking about hurting yourself
Talk to someone you trust 👪🧑⚕️📞
Slide 5 – Emergency Services
If it’s urgent, contact:
UK: 999
USA: 911
Suicide / Crisis: 988 (USA) / 116 123 (UK Samaritans) 🚨
Slide 6 – Simple Self-Care Tips
Take deep breaths when stressed 😮💨
Go for short walks 🚶♂️
Listen to music you like 🎵
Write your thoughts in a notebook ✍️
Ask for help early 🗣️
Slide 7 – Helpful Contacts
USA:
NAMI: 1-800-950-6264
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
CDC Healthy Living Tips: cdc.gov
Global / Online:
WHO Mental Health: who.int/mental_health
Mind (UK): mind.org.uk
BetterHelp: betterhelp.com 🌐
Slide 8 – Mental Health Questions
Section 1: Definitions
What is mental health?
What is mental illness?
Section 2: Similarities & Differences
3. What do mental health and mental illness have in common?
4. What are the main differences?
Section 3: Understanding Mental Health
5. What does good mental health look like?
Slide 9 – Reflection / Discussion
Reflection Box: “Things we forget about mental health”
Compare Table: Physical vs Mental Health
Discussion Prompt: How can staff / students / carers support mental health?
💬
Slide 10 – A–Z Mental Illness Guide
Include all letters A–Z as outlined earlier
Each condition: simple definition, key symptoms, support tips
Icons for therapy 🧠💬, medication 💊,
peer support 👥
Slide 11 – Key Takeaways / Reminder
Taking care of mind and body is important
Ask for help, take breaks, eat well, sleep, move
Small steps every day make a big difference ✅
Chapter 13 – Mental Health & Emotional
Wellbeing and Support
Module 12 – Mental Health Law,
Rights, and Protections
(UK, USA, Australia &
Worldwide)
🔎
Module Overview
This module explains the main
mental health laws and protections in the:
United Kingdom
United States
Australia
Worldwide human rights frameworks
It is designed for:
Students
Staff
Volunteers
Managers
Trainees
Health & social care workers
Education professionals
Community support workers
The module focuses on promoting:
Rights
Dignity
Fair treatment
Protection from discrimination
Safe and ethical practice
🎯
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module,
learners will be able to:
Understand key mental health laws
in different countries
Recognise the rights of people
using services
Understand consent and capacity
Identify discrimination and
inequality
Promote dignity and respect in
care
Understand safeguarding
responsibilities
Recognise when someone’s rights
may be at risk
Know when to report concerns
⚖️ Why
Mental Health Law Matters
Mental health laws exist to:
Protect people from harm
Ensure safe treatment
Prevent abuse or neglect
Safeguard human rights
Balance care and freedom
Without these laws, people with
mental illness or disabilities could face:
Unfair detention
Forced treatment without
safeguards
Discrimination
Loss of independence
Abuse or exploitation
🇬🇧
United Kingdom – Key Mental Health Laws
🧠
Mental Health Act 1983 (Amended 2007)
This law allows people to be detained
(sectioned) if they are at risk to themselves or others due to mental illness.
It covers:
Hospital detention for assessment
or treatment
Rights to appeal detention
Access to advocacy (IMHA)
Treatment safeguards
🧾
Mental Capacity Act 2005
This law protects people who may
struggle to make decisions.
Key principles:
Assume capacity unless proven
otherwise
Support people to make decisions
People can make “unwise”
decisions
Act in best interests
Choose least restrictive option
Includes:
Best interest decisions
Lasting Power of Attorney
Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
(DoLS)
🛡️
Equality Act 2010
Protects people from
discrimination based on disability, including mental illness.
Covers:
Employment
Education
Housing
Services
Employers must provide reasonable
adjustments.
🇺🇸
United States – Key Mental Health Laws
⚖️ Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Protects people with mental
health conditions from discrimination.
Covers:
Jobs
Schools
Public services
Transport
Requires reasonable
accommodations, such as:
Flexible schedules
Quiet workspaces
Remote work options
🏥
Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act
Requires insurance companies to
treat mental health care the same as physical health care.
This means:
Equal coverage limits
Fair access to therapy and
treatment
👨⚖️
Civil Commitment Laws
Each state has laws allowing
involuntary hospitalization if someone is:
A danger to themselves
A danger to others
Unable to care for themselves
Safeguards include court reviews
and time limits.
🇦🇺
Australia – Key Mental Health Laws
Australia’s laws vary by state
but share common principles:
Least restrictive care
Human rights protection
Review tribunals
Advocacy rights
Examples include:
Mental Health Act (state-based)
Disability Discrimination Act
1992
These protect access to services,
employment, and fair treatment.
🌍
Worldwide Human Rights Protections
🕊️
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
This global agreement protects
the rights of disabled people, including mental health conditions.
Key rights include:
Equal recognition before the law
Freedom from abuse
Access to healthcare
Education rights
Employment rights
Independent living
Countries that sign must promote
inclusion and dignity.
🧭
Core Principles Across All Countries
Despite legal differences, most
systems share the same values:
Dignity
Respect
Autonomy
Least restrictive care
Informed consent
Right to advocacy
Protection from abuse
If you’d like, next we can build
the follow-on sections in order, such as:
Consent & Capacity
Safeguarding & Duty of Care
Human Rights in Practice
Case Studies
Easy Read Version
Training
Quiz / Assessment
📘
Module: Mental Health Law, Rights, and Protections
(UK,
USA, Australia & Worldwide)
Continued
🌍
4. Worldwide & General Protections (continued)
International
Human Rights Laws
Everyone
has the right to:
Health
care
Dignity
and respect
Freedom
from abuse
Privacy
and confidentiality
Fair
treatment
Support
in the community where possible
These
rights apply to people with mental health conditions the same as anyone else.
🧭
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD)
This
is a global human rights agreement.
It
protects people with disabilities, including mental health conditions.
Key
principles include:
Equality
before the law
Freedom
from discrimination
Right
to live independently
Access
to health services
Access
to education and employment
Protection
from exploitation, violence, and abuse
Many
countries use this framework to shape their laws and services.
🏥
Safeguarding in Mental Health Settings
Safeguarding
means protecting people from harm.
This
includes protecting people from:
Abuse
(physical, emotional, sexual, financial)
Neglect
Bullying
or harassment
Unsafe
care practices
Exploitation
Staff
responsibilities include:
Reporting
concerns
Following
safeguarding policies
Recording
incidents correctly
Respecting
confidentiality
Acting
in the person’s best interests
⚖️
Key Principles Across All Countries
Although
laws differ, most mental health systems share common principles:
1.
Least Restrictive Care
People should receive care in the least restrictive way possible.
2.
Consent and Choice
People should be involved in decisions about their treatment.
3.
Capacity and Best Interests
If someone cannot decide, decisions must be made in their best interests.
4.
Confidentiality
Personal information must be protected.
5.
Right to Appeal
People detained or treated compulsorily can challenge decisions.
🧑⚕️
Staff Duty of Care
Duty
of care means staff must:
Keep
people safe
Act
professionally
Follow
policies and laws
Report
risks
Provide
respectful care
Maintain
dignity
Failure
to follow duty of care can lead to disciplinary or legal action.
❤️
Why Mental Health Rights Matter
Mental
health laws exist to:
Protect
vulnerable people
Prevent
abuse and neglect
Ensure
fair treatment
Promote
recovery
Reduce
stigma and discrimination
Support
community inclusion
🌟
Level 1 – Easy Read Module: Health & Safety + Mental Health + Suicide &
Self-Harm
Key
Messages:
Support
is not weakness
Talking
early helps
Work
should not harm people
🔑
Key Protections Across Roles
Patients
/ Clients
Right
to consent
Right
to dignity and respect
Right
to safe and appropriate care
Right
to complain or appeal decisions
Staff
/ Trainees / Managers
Protection
from discrimination
Right
to reasonable adjustments
Right
to a safe working environment
Right
to privacy about mental health conditions
📝
Knowledge Check – Module Questions
Multiple
Choice Questions
Which
UK law protects people from discrimination related to mental health?
A. Mental Health Act
B. Equality Act 2010 ✅
C. Human Rights Act
D. Mental Capacity Act
What
does the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (USA) do?
A. Allows compulsory detention
B. Protects privacy only
C. Requires equal insurance coverage for mental and physical health ✅
D. Regulates prisons
Which
act helps make decisions for people who lack capacity in the UK?
A. Human Rights Act
B. Equality Act
C. Mental Capacity Act 2005 ✅
D. Privacy Act
In
Australia, mental health laws are mainly:
A. One national law
B. Decided by hospitals only
C. State-based ✅
D. Optional
The
WHO QualityRights Initiative focuses on:
A. Punishment
B. Control
C. Dignity and human rights ✅
D. Insurance rules
Short
Answer / Discussion Questions
Why
is it important to protect dignity in mental health care?
Give
one example of a reasonable adjustment at work or school.
How
are mental health rights similar across different countries?
Why
is privacy important for people with mental health conditions?
🌈
Level 2 Module – What is Mental Health vs Mental Illness?
Everyone
has mental health
Mental
health is how you feel each day 😊❤️
Mental
health helps you cope with life
Mental
health can change:
It
can be good
It
can be poor
It
can change over time
This
is normal for everyone
Mental
illness
A
health condition that affects:
Thoughts
Feelings
Behaviors
Reactions
Even
interactions with others
It
can make coping with life more difficult
Good
mental health means managing well
Poor mental health means struggling with mental illness
🧠
Understanding Mental Health & Mental Illness
🌟
Key Points
Mental
health is something everyone has.
Mental
illness is a diagnosable condition affecting thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
Mental
health can be good, poor, or change over time, with or without mental illness.
Support
is not weakness; asking for help is normal and safe.
Respect
individual differences — people cope and react differently.
💡
Everyday Mental Health
Mental
health affects how we think, feel, and act.
Good
mental health helps us cope, relate to others, and make decisions.
Mental
health exists on a continuum – it is dynamic, not fixed.
Difficult
emotions are normal; they do not automatically mean mental illness.
Small
achievements are huge victories for someone struggling.
🏥
What is Mental Illness?
A
diagnosable health condition affecting thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or
interactions.
Conditions
include: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, OCD,
and more.
Mental
illness is not a choice, weakness, or character flaw.
People
with mental illness can still have good mental health at times.
Treatment
can include: therapy, medication, and support systems.
Personal
safety is always important — mental illness explains behavior, it does not
excuse abuse.
🌍
Supporting Mental Health
Key
ways to help:
Listen
without judgment 👂
Validate
feelings ✅
Offer
support and guide to professional help 🏥
Prioritize
safety 🛡️
Respect
confidentiality (unless safety is at risk) 🔒
Be
patient and understanding ⏳
Recognize
that progress isn’t linear ↔️
Suggest,
don’t force 💬
Set
boundaries around harmful behavior 🚫
🌈
Understanding Emotional Experiences
Mental
health is not always black and white.
People
can experience strong emotions without obvious reasons.
Life
events, stress, or biological factors can affect energy, motivation, and
functioning.
Even
small achievements matter — celebrate them!
📌
Takeaway Messages
Everyone
has mental health; everyone can need support.
Mental
illness is real, treatable, and not shameful.
Empathy,
patience, and respect make a huge difference.
Good mental health is possible even
with mental illness.
Progress may be slow, but every step
counts.
Level 1 – The Basics of Mental
Health 🧠❤️
Slide 1 – Title
What is Mental Health?
Level 1 – Easy Read
Slide 2 – What is Mental Health?
Mental health is about how we:
think
feel
react
behave
cope with life
Everyone has mental health, just
like physical health.
Slide 3 – What Mental Health Does to
People
Mental health affects:
coping with stress
getting on with others
learning and working
feeling about yourself
Poor mental health makes life
harder.
Slide 4 – Mental Health and Everyday
Problems
Things that affect mental health:
money worries
housing problems
job or benefit stress
health problems
These can make people feel worried,
tired, or low.
Slide 5 – Children, Young People,
and Mental Health
May struggle with:
problems at school
bullying
exams or homework
making friends
These worries are real and
important.
Slide 6 – Family Changes
Hard things can include:
parents arguing
parents separating/divorcing
living with one parent
changes at home
Common but still upsetting.
Slide 7 – Mental Health and Special
Educational Needs
Children with special needs may:
take longer to understand changes
feel confused or scared
need extra support
This is not their fault.
Slide 8 – Everyone Needs Support
Sometimes
Everyone:
has good days and bad days
needs help at times
asking for help is a strength
Slide 9 – Simple Ways to Support
Mental Health
Talking to someone you trust
Keeping a routine
Getting rest and sleep
Feeling listened to
Small support can make a big
difference
Slide 10 – Level 1 Summary
Mental health affects everyone
Everyday problems cause stress
Children and families need
understanding
Support helps people cope
Level 1 Questions
What is mental health?
Name one everyday problem that can
affect mental health.
Why might family changes be hard for
children?
Level 2 – Understanding Mental
Illness 🟣
Slide 1 – Title
Mental Health and Mental Illness
Level 2 – Easy Read
Slide 2 – Mental Health and Mental
Illness
Mental health:
is about wellbeing
changes over time
Mental illness:
is a health condition
affects thoughts, feelings,
behaviors
Slide 3 – Mental Health as a
Continuum
Mental health is like a line:
Feeling well →
Struggling → Mental illness
People can move along this line
during life
Slide 4 – Common Mental Health
Conditions
Anxiety
Depression
Eating disorders
Psychotic disorders
These are more common than people
think
Slide 5 – Examples of Mental Illness
Depression – very sad, tired,
hopeless
Bipolar disorder – big changes
between high and low moods
Anxiety disorders – strong fear or
worry
OCD, PTSD, phobias
Slide 6 – Getting Help
Doctor or therapist 🧑⚕️
Talking therapy 💬
Medication 💊
Slide 7 – Therapy Types
CBT: change unhelpful thoughts and
behavior
DBT: manage strong emotions, support
safety
IPT: focus on relationships and
communication
Psychodynamic: explore past
experiences
EMDR: process trauma using guided
eye movements
Supportive Counselling: emotional
support and coping skills
Slide 8 – Medication Support
May include:
Antidepressants
Anxiety medication
Mood stabilizers
Antipsychotic medication
Often used with therapy
Slide 9 – Peer and Community Support
Peer support – talking to people
with similar experiences
Community teams, charities,
helplines
Helps people feel understood,
reduces stigma
Slide 10 – Self-Care & Lifestyle
Support
Sleep well
Gentle exercise
Healthy food
Relaxation / mindfulness
Reduce alcohol or drugs
Slide 11 – Emergency & Helplines
UK: Samaritans 116 123, Shout 85258,
Mind mind.org.uk
USA: 988 Suicide & Crisis
Lifeline, NAMI nami.org, SAMHSA 1-800-662-4357
Worldwide: Befrienders worldwide
befrienders.org, WHO who.int/mental_health
Slide 12 – Self-Care Tips
Deep breaths when stressed 😮💨
Short walks 🚶♂️
Listen to music 🎵
Write thoughts in notebook ✍️
Ask for help early 🗣️
Slide 13 – Understanding Mental
Illness A–Z
Each letter: condition, simple
definition, key symptoms, support tips
Include icons for therapy 🧠💬, medication 💊, peer support 👥
Slide 14 – Reflection / Discussion
Reflection Box: “Things we forget
about mental health”
Compare Table: Physical vs Mental
Health
Discussion Prompt: How can staff /
students / carers support mental health? 💬
Slide 15 – Level 2 Summary
Mental health can fluctuate
Mental illness is real, not a
weakness
Support, therapy, and self-care help
recovery
Asking for help is a strength ✅
Level 2 Questions
Mental illness can affect thoughts
and feelings – yes/no?
Which is a talking therapy? CBT /
Medication / Exercise
Medication should be prescribed by?
Doctor / Friends / Social Media
Peer support can help people feel
less alone – True / False
It is okay to ask for help – Yes /
No
Level 2 – Mental Illness (continued)
Slide 5 – How Mental Illness Affects
Daily Life
Mental illness can affect:
school or work 🏫💼
relationships 👥❤️
sleep and energy 🛌⚡
self-care 🧼🪥
People may need extra support 🆘
Slide 6 – Mental Illness and
Disability
People with disabilities may:
face more stress 😰
have fewer supports 🏚️
be affected more when support is
removed ❌
This can impact mental health 🧠
Slide
7 – Barriers to Getting Help
Some people do not ask for help
because of:
stigma 🚫
fear of judgement 👀
worry about being a burden ⚖️
not knowing where to go ❓
Slide 8 –
Types of Support
Support may include:
counselling or CBT 💬🧠
medication 💊
peer support groups 👥
family and community support 🏠🤝
Different people need different
support
Slide 9 –
Recovery and Hope
Mental illness can be managed ✅
People can:
learn coping skills 🧘♂️
get better with support 💬💊
live meaningful lives 🌟
Recovery looks different for
everyone
Slide 10 –
Level 2 Summary
Mental illness is not a failure ❌
Support and treatment help 💬💊
Understanding reduces stigma ❤️
Level 2
Questions
What is the difference between
mental health and mental illness?
Name one mental health condition.
Why might some people find it hard
to ask for help?
Abuse Awareness
Definition, types
(emotional, physical, sexual, psychological, neglect)
Child abuse
specifics: consent, secrecy, vulnerability
Effects on mental
health (anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-blame, relationship difficulties)
Power and control
explanation
Signs a child may be
struggling
Adult
responsibilities: listen, notice, believe, act
Addiction Overview
Definition, types
(substances and behaviors)
Mental health framing
(not a moral failure)
Anxiety & Anger Modules
Definitions,
triggers, and cycles
Types of anxiety
disorders
Child-friendly
symptoms & coping strategies
Stress/anxiety/anger
differentiation
Easy Read
Module: Abuse & Mental Health
Slide 1 –
Title
Abuse & Mental Health
Easy Read PowerPoint
Slide 2 –
What is Abuse?
Abuse can be:
psychological or emotional 🧠😢
physical 🚶♂️✋
sexual 💔
Abuse can happen in childhood or
adulthood
Abuse can seriously affect mental
health
Slide 3 –
Effects of Abuse on Mental Health
Anxiety 😰
Depression 😢
PTSD 🌀
Attachment difficulties ❤️
Long-term trauma 💔
Slide 4 –
Difficult Emotions
Feeling sad, anxious, angry, or
irritable 😢😡
Mood swings
Distressing thoughts
Sometimes thoughts about suicide ⚠️
Slide 5 –
Feeling Alone / Trust Issues
Hard to trust people
Fear of being hurt or rejected
Might isolate yourself or become
overly dependent
Slide 6 –
Shame and Guilt
Feeling responsible for what
happened 😔
Low self-esteem or self-criticism
Perfectionism or feeling “not good
enough”
Slide 7 –
Feeling Powerless
Hard to say “no” or assert needs ✋
Might act aggressively or try to
control others
Some develop eating disorders to
regain control 🍽️
Slide 8 –
Sexual Difficulties
Physical contact may feel scary
Intimacy can be challenging 💔
Slide 9 –
Overload from School or Work
Schoolwork or tasks
may feel like too much 📝
This is a signal
for help, not misbehavior 🚨
Staff, parents, and
carers should respond with support ❤️, not blame ❌
Slide 10 – How to Support Someone
Listen without
judging 👂❤️
Offer help early 🆘
Be patient and
consistent ⏳
Encourage talking
to a trusted adult or professional 🧑⚕️💬
Slide 11 – Symbols to Help Understanding
🚶♂️ Leaving / needing space
😢 Sad / upset feelings
🆘 Need help
❤️ Support / care
Sara, if you like,
I can now combine all your mental health Level 1 & 2
slides, therapy, self-care, abuse, and support contacts into a single Easy Read
PowerPoint file,
fully formatted with symbols/icons and questions ready for training, student
learning, or website use.
Do you want me to
generate that full PowerPoint file next?
Mental Health – Level 1 & 2 (basics, mental illness, therapy, support, self-care)
Abuse Module
(understanding abuse, why abuse happens, child abuse, effects on mental health,
getting support)
Addiction Module
(title slide started; can continue with effects, support, treatment, Easy Read Module – Addiction
(Symbols:
🧠 Brain, ❤️ Heart, 🆘 Support)
Slide 1 – Title
Understanding Addiction
Easy Read – Learning and Awareness
Slide 2 – What is Addiction?
Addiction
is when someone cannot stop doing something.
This might include:
Taking
drugs 💊
Drinking
alcohol 🍷
Gambling
🎰
Smoking
🚬
Eating
too much 🍔
Spending
too much money 💳
Being
online too much 🌐
Even
when it causes harm, the person struggles to stop.
Slide 3 – Addiction Is Not a Choice
Addiction
is not about being weak.
Addiction
is a health condition 🧠.
It
affects the brain and self-control.
People
with addiction often want help ❤️.
Slide 4 – Types of Addiction
Substance addiction can include:
Alcohol
🍷
Drugs
💊
Smoking
🚬
Some
medicines
Behaviour addiction can include:
Gambling
🎰
Shopping
🛒
Eating
too much 🍔
Internet
or gaming 🌐
Slide 5 – What Addiction Can Look Like
Someone
with addiction may:
Feel
out of control
Think
about it all the time
Find
it hard to stop
Keep
going even when it causes harm
This
can affect:
Health
🧠❤️
Family
👨👩👧👦
Friends
🤝
Money
💳
Work
or school 🏫💼
Slide 6 – Why Do People Become Addicted?
There
is no single reason.
Addiction can be linked to:
Stress
or trauma 😢
Mental
health problems 🧠
Loneliness
🌐
Pain
or illness 🩹
Past
abuse 💔
Family
history 👪
It
is never just one reason.
Slide 7 – Addiction and Mental Health
Addiction
often happens with mental health problems.
This can include:
Anxiety
😰
Depression
😔
Trauma
💔
Sometimes
people use substances or behaviours to:
Block
feelings
Cope
with pain
Feel
better for a short time
Slide 8 – Explaining Is NOT Excusing
Understanding
addiction does NOT excuse harm.
Harmful
behaviour is still harmful ⚠️
But understanding helps us:
Be
kinder ❤️
Reduce
blame 🙏
Support
recovery 💪
Keep
people safe 🛡️
Slide 9 – Can Addiction Be Treated?
Yes
✅
Addiction
can be treated 🧠
People
can recover with the right support 🆘
Recovery
looks different for everyone 🌱
Slide 10 – Support for Addiction
Support
may include:
Talking
therapy 💬
Counselling
❤️
Medication
💊
Support
groups 🤝
Peer
support 🆘
Asking
for help is a strong step 💪.
Slide 11 – How You Can Help
You
can help by:
Listening
👂
Not
judging 🚫
Encouraging
support ❤️
Keeping
boundaries 🛑
Looking
after yourself 🧠
You
do not have to fix everything.
Slide 12 – Final Message
Addiction
is:
Real
Common
Treatable
People
deserve:
Understanding
❤️
Support
🆘
Hope
🌱
Recovery
is possible 💙
🧩 Level 1 Quiz – Understanding Addiction
Question 1
What is addiction?
A.
When someone chooses to be bad
B.
When someone cannot stop doing something even when it causes harm ✅
C.
When someone only likes something a lot
Question 2
Which of these can be addictions?
A.
Only drugs
B.
Only alcohol
C.
Drugs, alcohol, gambling, eating too much, spending money ✅
Question 3
Is addiction a health condition?
A.
Yes ✅
B.
No
C.
Only sometimes
Question 4
Does addiction affect the brain?
A.
Yes ✅
B.
No
C.
Only children
Question 5
Can someone have more than one addiction?
A.
No
B.
Yes ✅
C.
Only once
Question 6
Which of these may increase the risk of addiction?
A.
Stress or trauma
B.
Mental health problems
C. Both A and B ✅
Question 7
Does understanding addiction excuse harmful behaviour?
A. Yes
B. No ✅
C. Always
Question 8
Can addiction be treated?
A. No
B. Yes ✅
C. Only for some people
Question 9
Which of these can help someone with addiction?
A. Therapy
B. Support groups
C. Both A and B ✅
and recovery)
Symbols & Easy Read formatting (emojis/icons, clear short sentences,
question slides, reflection prompts)
Questions & discussion points for each module
I can structure it so each topic is a separate section, ready for:
PowerPoint presentations
Training sessions
Student learning
Easy Read PowerPoint – Addiction & ADHD Module
Section 1: Addiction (Level 1 & 2)
Slide 1 – Title
Understanding Addiction 🧠❤️
Easy Read – Learning & Awareness
Slide 2 – What is Addiction?
Addiction is when someone cannot stop doing something
This can include: alcohol 🍷, drugs 💊,
gambling 🎰, eating 🍔, money 💳,
online 🌐
Even when it causes harm, the person struggles to stop
Slide 3 – Addiction is Not a Choice
Addiction is not weakness or bad behaviour
Addiction affects the brain 🧠
People often want help ❤️
Slide 4 – Types of Addiction
Substance: alcohol, drugs, smoking 🚬
Behaviour: gambling 🎰, shopping 🛒,
eating 🍔, internet/gaming 🌐
Slide 5 – Signs Addiction Can Affect Life
Health 🧠❤️
Family 👨👩👧👦
Friends 🤝
Money 💳
Work/School 🏫💼
Slide 6 – Why People Develop Addiction
Stress 😢, trauma 💔, mental health 🧠,
loneliness 🌐, pain 🩹, family history 👪
Usually multiple reasons
Slide 7 – Addiction & Mental Health
Often co-occurs with anxiety 😰, depression 😔,
trauma 💔
Some use substances/behaviours to cope temporarily
Slide 8 – Explaining is NOT Excusing
Understanding addiction ≠ excusing harm ⚠️
Helps reduce blame, support recovery, keep people safe 🛡️
Slide 9 – Treatment & Support
Counselling 💬, therapy ❤️,
medication 💊
Support groups 🤝, peer support 🆘
Recovery looks different 🌱
Slide 10 – Helping Someone
Listen 👂, do not judge 🚫
Encourage support ❤️, keep boundaries 🛑
Take care of yourself 🧠
Slide 11 – Quiz Questions (Level 1)
Question 1–10 as previously formatted ✅ (with correct answers)
Slide 12 – Level 2 Key Messages
Addiction can be hidden
Can involve food, money, internet, alcohol, gambling
Recovery is non-linear; awareness and self-compassion are important 🌱
Slide 13 – Support & Helplines
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
Lifeline: 13 11 14
International: Child Helpline, RAINN, UNICEF, Befrienders 🌐
Section 2: ADHD Overview
Slide 1 – Title
ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 🧠✨
Slide 2 – Definition
Lifelong condition starting in childhood
Trouble focusing, hyperactivity, impulsivity
Not everyone with ADHD develops mental health issues
Slide 3 – Mental Health Links
Anxiety 😰
Anger difficulties 😡
Sleep problems 💤
Substance misuse 🚬💊
Conduct disorder / OCD / personality difficulties (for some)
Slide 4 – How ADHD Affects Children
Struggle to sit still
Forget everyday tasks 🧦🪥
Impulsive talking and behaviour
Hard to wait turn or follow schoolwork
Slide 5 – ADHD Across the Lifespan
Symptoms change with age
Coping strategies can help
Self-understanding improves outcomes
Some challenges may continue into adulthood
Slide 6 – Support
Structured routines
Therapy
School/work support
Easy Read PowerPoint – ADHD & Mental Health Module
Section 1: ADHD Basics – Level 1
Slide 1 – Title
ADHD and Mental Health 🧠✨
Easy Read – Level 1
Slide 2 – What is ADHD?
ADHD = Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Lifelong condition starting in childhood
Can make it hard to:
Pay attention 👀
Sit still 🪑
Think before acting 🤔
Slide 3 – How ADHD Can Affect Children
Children with ADHD may:
Have lots of energy ⚡
Forget everyday tasks 🧦🪥
Interrupt others 🗣️
Act before thinking ⚡
Struggle with waiting ⏳
Have difficulties with schoolwork 🏫, organisation 📚,
timekeeping ⏰, finishing tasks ✅
Slide 4 – ADHD and Mental Health
Some people with ADHD may experience:
Anxiety 😰
Anger difficulties 😡
Sleep problems 💤
Substance misuse 🚬💊
Most children do not develop serious mental health issues
Slide 5 – Support for ADHD
Support can include:
Clear routines 📅
Support at school or college 🏫
Talking to a trusted adult 👂
Therapy 💬
Slide 6 – Important Reminder
ADHD does not mean lazy or naughty 🚫
With support, children with ADHD can do well ✅
Section 2: ADHD Details – Level 2
Slide 7 – ADHD and Mental Health
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition 🧠
Brain works differently
Some people are at higher risk of mental health difficulties, but many are
not
Possible linked difficulties: anxiety 😰, anger 😡,
sleep 💤, OCD, personality difficulties
Slide 8 – Medication and Therapy
Some people may benefit from:
Melatonin – helps with sleep 🌙
Methylphenidate – helps with attention & impulsivity 💊
Therapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 💬
Helps with anxiety, low mood, negative thinking, emotional regulation
Slide 9 – ADHD, Anxiety, and Suicidal Thoughts
Some may have suicidal thoughts linked to:
Anxiety 😰
Low self-esteem 💔
Feeling misunderstood 🧩
Repeated negative thinking 🔄
Not caused by ADHD itself, but by emotional strain
PTSD is different ⚠️
Slide 10 – What Helps
Support may include:
Talking therapy 💬
Stress management 🌿
Coping skills 🛠️
Peer support 🤝
School/workplace adjustments 🏫💼
Small changes make a difference 🌱
Slide 11 – Reflection (Easy Read)
Ask yourself:
What do I do when stressed? 😰
Does this help long-term? ⏳
Is this causing harm? ⚠️
What could I change? 🔄
What support could help? ❤️
Slide 12 – ADHD Across the Lifespan
Symptoms may change with age ⏳
Coping strategies help 💡
Self-understanding improves 🧠
Some difficulties continue into teenage years & adulthood 👶➡️🧑
Slide 13 – Key Messages
ADHD affects attention, energy, and behaviour ⚡
Some may have linked mental health issues 😰😡💤
Support works best when combined: therapy, routines, school/work
adjustments ✅
Awareness and self-compassion are important 🌱
ADHD Case Study – Level 2
Slide 14 – Case Study: Raju
ADHD Example 🧠✨
Slide 15 – About Raju
Raju is in 5th grade 🏫
Raju has ADHD
This affects how he thinks, learns, and manages tasks
Slide 16 – Challenges Raju Faces
Finds it hard to focus in class 👀
Daydreams or gets distracted 💭
Trouble finishing homework on time 📝
Homework includes reading, writing, math 📚
Struggles to complete work before deadlines ⏳
Takes longer to understand information and make decisions 🧩
Slide 17 – ADHD Traits in Raju
Difficulty paying attention for a long time ⏱️
Poor time management ⏰
Trouble completing tasks ✅
Slower thinking and decision-making 🧠
Slide 18 – How Support Can Help
Extra time for homework 🕒
Clear instructions and routines 📋
Breaks during tasks 🛌
Positive encouragement ❤️
Therapy or counselling if needed 💬
Slide 19 – Key Message from Raju’s Story
ADHD affects learning and daily life, but it is not laziness 🚫
With understanding and support, children with ADHD can succeed 🌱
Emotional strain can make challenges harder, so support matters
Slide 14 – Anger and ADHD / Meltdowns
Anger can happen with or without ADHD 😠
Children and adults may have strong emotional reactions (meltdowns)
Meltdowns are often triggered by:
Overwhelm 🌪️
Frustration or confusion 💭
Feeling misunderstood 😟
Meltdowns are normal reactions, not “bad behaviour” ❌
Slide 15 – How This Can Affect School / Work (Case Example: Raju)
May miss instructions 🏫
Needs reminders to finish work ⏳
Struggles with multi-step tasks 📝
May get frustrated when deadlines are tight ⏱️
Emotional strain can trigger anger or anxiety 🔄
Slide 16 – Anger and Anxiety Connection
Anger and anxiety often happen together 😰😡
Anxiety can make anger stronger
Anger can make anxiety worse
Understanding the cycle helps us manage both 💡
Slide 17 – Healthy Ways to Respond / Prevent Meltdowns
Notice early warning signs 👀
Take breaks or go to a calm space 🌿
Use deep breathing or sensory activities 🧘
Break tasks into smaller steps ✅
Ask for help from a trusted adult or peer 🤝
Keep routines consistent 🕒
Slide 18 – Support and Skills Everyone Can Learn
Anger management is a skill, not a punishment 💡
Everyone can learn to:
Recognize triggers ⚡
Express feelings safely 🗣️
Calm down effectively 🌊
Solve problems without hurting others ✅
Slide 19 – Key Messages
Anger is normal 🧠
Meltdowns and emotional reactions happen in many situations
ADHD, anxiety, or stress can make this harder, but support helps 🌱
Learning to manage anger keeps us safe and healthy 🛡️
Slide 20 – Reflection Questions (Optional)
What makes me feel angry or frustrated? 💭
What helps me calm down? 🌿
Who can I ask for help when I feel overwhelmed? 🤝
How can I prevent anger from causing problems? ✅
Easy Read Anger & Anxiety Module – Teenagers, Young
People & Adults
Symbols: 😡 (anger), 😰 (anxiety), 🧠 (brain), ❤️ (heart), 🔄 (cycle), 🤝 (support)
Slide 1 – What is Anger?
Anger is a strong feeling.
Everyone feels angry sometimes. That’s OK.
Anger can happen when:
Something feels unfair ⚖️
Someone hurts us 😢
We feel scared or left out 😨
Something bad happens
Symbols: 😡, ⚡, 🧠
Slide 2 – Anger and ADHD / Autism
Children with ADHD or Autism may feel anger more quickly or
strongly
Brains can get overwhelmed easily 🌀
May struggle to say what’s wrong
Needs reminders and support 🏫
Meltdowns are normal reactions, not “bad behaviour” ❌
Slide 3 – Anger and Anxiety
Anxiety = worry, nervousness, fear 😰
Anger can be a response to anxiety
Anxiety → Anger → Anxiety 🔄
Examples:
Nervous about a job interview → snapping at someone 👔
Worried about money → frustrated with small
accidents 💵
Worried about health → upset at doctors 🏥
Slide 4 – Why Anger Happens
Triggers:
Feeling treated unfairly ⚖️
Being hurt or scared 😟
Stress, overload, or life problems 💼
Past experiences 🕰️
Learned reactions from others 📚
Slide 5 – How Anger Can Be Helpful
Shows problems that need attention ⚠️
Protects ourselves from harm 🛡️
Gives energy and focus ⚡
Motivates change ✊
Helps focus on what matters ✅
Slide 6 – How Anger Can Cause Problems
Hurts relationships 💥
Affects work or school
Makes us feel guilty, ashamed, or stressed 😢
Impacts health (sleep, blood pressure) 💤
Using alcohol or drugs to cope 🚫
Slide 7 – Healthy Ways to Respond / Manage Meltdowns
Notice the feeling first 👀
Pause and breathe 🌬️
Take a break or go to a quiet space 🌿
Move your body: walk, run, dance 🏃
Use words, not actions 🗣️
Draw, write, or use sensory tools ✍️
Ask for help 🤝
Slide 8 – Tips for Children & Young People
Keep routines consistent 🕒
Break tasks into smaller steps ✅
Use reminders for instructions or homework ⏳
Identify early warning signs of anger 🔔
Slide 9 – Tips for Adults
Recognize triggers 🔍
Practice relaxation: meditation, yoga 🧘
Set boundaries 🚧
Communicate clearly with “I” statements 🗣️
Develop hobbies, creative outlets, or exercise 🎨
Seek support: friends, groups, professionals 🤝
Slide 10 – When to Seek Help
Anger leads to violence or self-harm 🆘
Feeling out of control 😨
Affecting health, relationships, or work
Using alcohol/drugs to cope 🚫
Support: counselor, therapy, GP, anger management programs 👩⚕️
Slide 11 – Reflection Questions
What makes me feel angry or frustrated? 💭
What helps me calm down? 🌿
Who can I ask for help? 🤝
How can I prevent anger from causing problems? ✅
Slide 12 – Key Messages
Anger is normal 🧠
Meltdowns and strong emotional reactions happen
ADHD, Autism, stress, or anxiety can make it harder
Learning to manage anger keeps us safe and healthy 🛡️
Support and help are always available ❤️
This version integrates:
ADHD/Autism considerations
Meltdowns
Anger–Anxiety link
Practical strategies for children, teenagers, and adults
Symbols for Easy Read comprehension
Easy Read Module – Understanding Anger & Family Changes
Symbols: 😡 (anger), 😰 (anxiety), 🧠
(brain), ❤️ (heart), 🔄 (cycle), 🏠
(home), ✍️ (writing), 🎨 (drawing), 🧘
(calm), 🤝 (support)
Slide 1 – Title
Understanding Anger and Family Changes
Support for children with ADHD, Autism, and other needs ❤️
A guide for families, schools, and support workers
Slide 2 – Anger Is Not Bad
Anger is normal
Shows when something feels unfair, upsetting, or confusing
Feeling angry is okay
How we show anger matters
Slide 3 – Anger Can Be Harder for Some
Children with ADHD or Autism may feel anger more quickly or strongly
Brains can get overwhelmed easily 🌀
May struggle to say what’s wrong
Needs extra support, not punishment ❌
Slide 4 – Why Might Someone Be Angry Inside?
Grown-ups shouting or arguing at home 🏠
Parents breaking up or already split 💔
Feeling left out, confused, or like no one understands 😟
Changes at school, home, or routines 🔄
Even if a child doesn’t talk about it, they might still feel it
Slide 5 – When Parents Split Up
It’s not your fault ✅
Parents sometimes need to part because they can’t be happy together
Can feel scary, sad, or make you angry
You are still loved ❤️
You still matter 💙
Slide 6 – How Family Changes Can Affect Feelings
You may feel:
Confused 🤔
Worried about where you’ll live 🏠
Sad or angry if one parent is not around 😢
Afraid of more changes happening 😨
It’s okay to talk about all these feelings 🗨️
Slide 7 – Ways to Help with Big Feelings
Talk to someone you trust 🤝 (parent, teacher,
support worker)
Use calming strategies 🧘 (deep breaths, walks,
drawing)
Have a quiet space if things get too loud
Use words or pictures to show feelings ✍️ 🎨
Write or draw in a feelings journal 📖
Slide 8 – Remember
✅ It’s okay to feel upset
✅ It’s okay to need time
✅ You don’t have to “just get over it”
✅ You are not alone
✅ You can get through this—with help 🌈
Slide 9 – For Families and Supporters
Children need:
Reassurance ("It’s not your fault") 💡
Routine and predictability 🕒
Time to talk or just be 🗨️
Kind support, not punishment ❤️
Extra support for children with additional needs
Slide 10 – Support Helps Everyone
Anger can be managed with:
Consistent routines
Simple explanations
Calm, kind adults 🧘
Safe ways to express feelings
📘 "It’s okay to ask for help — feelings
are not bad, they’re messages"
Slide 11 – What Anger Feels Like
Like a bubble inside you, ready to burst
Can feel scary when others are angry
You are not responsible for someone else’s anger
If unmanaged, anger can harm friendships, relationships, and more
Slide 12 – Types of Anger
Assertive: Calm frustration, sets boundaries
Aggressive/Physical: Hitting, breaking things, assault
Chronic: Long-term frustration, repeated outbursts
Judgmental: Reaction to perceived faults in others
Passive–Aggressive: Avoiding confrontation, sarcasm, silent treatment
Volatile: Explosive, unpredictable
Overwhelmed: Tantrums, meltdowns, extreme stress
Slide 13 – Managing Anger Safely
Even strong anger can be managed safely:
Professional support
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Anger management programs
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Coping skills & emotion regulation techniques
Slide 14 – Quick Cool-Down Techniques
Breathe Deeply: Box breathing: inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4 🌬️
Take a Break: Step away from A – Abuse
Definition: Abuse is using power to hurt
or control someone.
Types: Emotional, physical, sexual,
psychological, neglect.
Child abuse: Children cannot consent; it’s
never their fault.
Hidden nature: Children may not
understand, may be threatened, or told to keep secrets.
Effects on mental health: Anxiety,
depression, PTSD, self-blame, relationship difficulties.
Adult responsibility: Listen, notice,
believe, act.
Symbols/Visuals: 🛑👂💬🧠💓
A – Addiction
Definition: Unable to stop using
substances (alcohol, drugs) or behaviors (gambling, gaming) even if harmful.
Framing: Mental health condition, not
moral failure.
Symbols/Visuals: 🍷🎮⚠️
A – Anxiety & Anger
Definitions:
Anxiety = worry/fear about the future or
uncertainty.
Anger = frustration or irritation over
unfair treatment or events now.
Connections: Anxiety can trigger anger,
anger can worsen anxiety.
Symptoms: Racing thoughts, tense muscles,
fast heartbeat, irritability, avoidance.
Support: CBT, relaxation, coping
strategies, school accommodations, therapy.
Symbols/Visuals: 😟😠🌪️🧘
A – Anorexia Nervosa (Easy Read Level 1
& Level 2)
Definition: Eating disorder involving fear
of weight gain, food restriction, distorted body image.
Emotional Impact: Worry, anxiety, sadness,
shame, anger, depression, suicidal thoughts.
Behavioural Signs: Restricting food,
over-exercising, hiding/throwing away food, strict rules.
Physical Effects: Weight loss, feeling
cold, hair loss, loss of periods, weak bones, concentration problems.
Support & Recovery: Medical care,
therapy, nutritional support, family/carer support. Recovery is possible.
Symbols/Visuals: 🌱 Body + heart, 🧠 Brain + body
Mental Health Services & Support
Overview (Easy Read)
Strain on services: Long waits, fewer
in-person appointments, higher demand.
Online therapy: Helpful but requires
devices, internet, digital skills; rapport can be harder.
Person-centred support: One-to-one or
group therapy; tailored to individual needs.
Accessibility: Travel, parking, disability
considerations, online options.
Symbols/Visuals: 🏥 Hospital, 💻 Laptop, 🧩
Puzzle piece, 🚌 Bus, 🅿️
Parking, 💛 Heart
Next Steps for PowerPoint / Easy Read
Package
Slide sets:
Abuse, Addiction, Anxiety & Anger,
Anorexia, Mental Health Services & Support.
Include Easy Read text, child-friendly
phrasing, and visual symbols/icons.
Handouts:
Simplified text for children, young
people, and parents.
Include key points, reassurance, support
contacts.
Quizzes / Reflection prompts:
“What is abuse?” / “Who is responsible for
keeping children safe?”
“What is anorexia?” / “Name one emotion
someone with anorexia might feel.”
“What is anxiety?” / “What helps when
feeling anxious?”
Optional visual diagrams:
Anger-anxiety cycle
Body/brain effects of anorexia
Pathways to support
the situation 🚶
Ground Yourself: Notice 5 things
you see, 4 feel, 3 hear, 2 smell, 1 taste 👀
Squeeze Something: Stress ball,
pillow ✊
Splash Cold Water on Your Face ❄️
Use a Code Word to signal
calm-down moment
Write It Out: Journaling ✍️
Move Your Body: Walk, jump, dance
🏃
Slide 15 – Key Messages
Anger is normal 😡
Managing anger keeps you and
others safe 🛡️
Seeking support shows care for
safety and wellbeing ❤️
Slide 16 – Key Differences
Between Anxiety and Anger
Feature
|
Anxiety 😰
|
Anger 😡
|
Trigger
|
Worry about what might happen
|
Reaction to unfair/upsetting
event now
|
Focus
|
Possible danger or failure
|
Person/action/event causing
harm
|
Feels Like
|
Worry, fear, nervousness
|
Frustration, irritation, rage
|
Body Reactions
|
Fast heartbeat, tense muscles
|
Same: fast heartbeat, tense
muscles
|
Symbols
|
❤️🔥,
🏃♂️
|
❤️🔥,
🏃♂️
|
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