Use the workbook as a printable self-reflection tool during independent study, counselling sessions, youth work, mentoring, or wellbeing lessons with emerging adults aged 16 to 24. The pages are designed for young people who may be navigating education, work, moving away from home, money pressures, changing relationships and questions about identity.
The opening pages explain the purpose of the EQUIPPED mental health training materials and set the workbook in the context of supporting young adults with mental health knowledge and practical coping skills. A short “How to Use this Workbook” section notes that very little is needed beyond curiosity, an open mind, a pen and, if available, coloured pencils.
The contents page shows a structured programme of stress management and healthy coping activities. Topics include emerging adulthood, what stress is, a stress test, noticing how stress affects you, circles of control, identity exploration, an identity web, core values exercises, developing inner strength, and countering negative thoughts using a 4C model.
Later sections listed in the workbook focus on real-life coping and relationships, including dealing with change through a Change Compass, helping a friend, conversation starters, healthy relationship behaviour, gratitude bingo, building a wellness plan, coping techniques, reflecting on harmful behaviours, mindfulness, goal setting using the GROW model, and where to get help.
The workbook is likely to be useful for teenagers, young adults, college students, youth workers, school counsellors, mental health practitioners and family support staff who want a structured but accessible set of prompts and exercises. It was developed through EQUIPPED, with acknowledgements to CMHA Calgary and YouthSMART.
