The Hallmarks of Good Mental Health

Gr 7 Up—Two teen hosts identify the hallmarks of good mental health as positive self-esteem, satisfying interpersonal relationships, academic success, having future goals, making good choices, the ability to delay gratification, and resiliency. The film focuses on four successful teens with diverse interests and backgrounds. Hosts identify self-esteem as the crucial element from which the other hallmarks flow, but caution that having good self-esteem doesn't mean feeling good about everything. The teens discuss their insecurities and areas where they could improve. Lydia speaks about the qualities she looks for in friends. Alex explains that his relationship with his mother contributes to his positive outlook. Kerry is close to one of her teachers. Max admits that he has a learning disability that made test-taking difficult, but he has developed strategies for compensating. The teens identify their future goals and how they developed them. Making good choices involves saying no to risky behavior. The teens explain that sometimes they must delay gratification to achieve their goals. For example, Kerry spends her free time at theater camp honing her skills instead of relaxing. Alex remains positive and active despite having Duchenne muscular dystrophy and losing his ability to walk. This film is a fine springboard for discussing the hallmarks of good mental health, but does not provide tools for achieving good self-esteem and resiliency.—Constance Dickerson, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH