Mind Matters: Stigma Smash Obstacle Course

Get ready to combine physical fun with mental health awareness in this action-packed obstacle course! Designed especially for teen boys, this game challenges teams to complete physical tasks while engaging in mental health conversations and breaking down stigmas. Let the course begin!

Game Setup

1. Form Teams: Divide participants into teams of 4-6 members. Each team becomes a mental health "squad" competing to complete the course with points for both speed and creativity.
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Facilitator Role: A student leader (or multiple leaders if available) explains the course and rules, monitors the activity, and keeps time as teams complete challenges.
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Materials Needed:
   • Cones or markers to set up the course
   • Index cards with mental health prompts
   • A stopwatch/timer
   • Whiteboard/scoreboard for tracking points
   • Any additional props for physical challenges (e.g., hula hoops, jump ropes)

Game Instructions

1. Obstacle Course Kick-Off (1 minute)

• The facilitator introduces the challenge and explains that teams will navigate through several stages that combine physical activities with mental health discussions.
• Remind participants that the focus is on both fun and meaningful conversation—each task has a mental health twist!

2. The Physical & Mental Health Challenges (3 minutes)

• Station 1: Stress Sprint

  • Teams start by sprinting to a designated point marked by cones. At the finish line, they find an index card with a mental health prompt, such as: "Name a quick exercise to boost your mood." A team member must read their answer out loud as the team high-fives and gets ready for the next task.
  • Points: 2 points for speed, 1 point for creative coping strategies.

• Station 2: Mindful Hopscotch

  • Teams complete a hopscotch course. At every even-numbered square, participants must shout out a mental health tip or a positive affirmation. This encourages physical movement and uplifting dialogue.
  • Points: 2 points for completing the course, 1 extra point if they incorporate a team cheer or motivational message.

• Station 3: Obstacle Puzzle

  • A small puzzle is set up near an obstacle (e.g., weave through cones or jump over a small barrier). Once physically challenged, the team works together to solve the puzzle, which includes identifying myths and facts about mental health.
  • Points: 3 points for puzzle completion and 1 bonus point for insightful discussion.

3. Final Sprint and Score Tally (1 minute)

• After the challenges, each team makes a final sprint back to the starting point to register their finish time.
• The facilitator tallies points from each station on a whiteboard and announces the winning team, praising their teamwork and the creative ways they engaged with mental health topics.
• Conclude with a brief reflection: ask teams, "How did combining physical activity with mental health awareness change your perspective on stress and well-being?"

Game Conclusion

• Wrap-Up Statement: The facilitator summarizes that mental health and physical well-being are connected. Emphasize that both exercise and open conversation contribute to breaking stigmas.
• Celebration: Applaud all teams for their energetic participation and creativity. Encourage continued discussions and support among peers beyond the game!

Enjoy the obstacle course and remember: when we get active together, we're stronger—both mentally and physically!