Claire Robson

Middle Grade Worksheet

Text on worksheet reads: References to mental illness are all around us. Killers in the movies are often said to be ‘psychos’. People say “That’s crazy!” when they are surprised. We hear a lot about mental illness, but many are confused about what it means. Mental illnesses are health problems that affect a person's mood or thoughts. These illnesses affect people in different ways. Mood disorders affect people’s emotions. People with eating disorders may eat too much or too little. People with psychotic disorders see or hear things that are not there. Despite their differences, all mental illnesses cause difficulty. Ordinary tasks may become a challenge. Sleeping may be difficult. Grades and cleanliness might decline. Mental illness will affect about half of all people at some point in their life. People of all ages, races and gender can become mentally ill. There is no singular cause of mental illness. In most cases, many things contribute to a person’s mental illness. Family history plays a major role in mental illness. Stress and sleep also affect mental health. Fortunately, mental health conditions can be treated. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications to help. A psychologist help patients process their emotions. Unfortunately, people with mental illness face a lot of stigma. Stigma is an negative prejudice from others. Some people believe that people with mental illness are lazy or dangerous. Mentally ill people sometimes struggle to find jobs or housing. They might be refused services in stores. The mentally ill deserve respect and support. It’s important for people to stand up against stigma when they see it.

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