Toolkit for educators and youth – Astronaut mental health and isolation
This Web package is a one-stop resource for educators and youth who want to learn about isolation and the mental health of astronauts in space.
Reading list
- How space and isolation affect astronauts' mental health
- Why mental health is important for astronauts in space
- How astronauts train to stay mentally strong
- How astronauts take care of their mental health in space
- The Overview Effect
- Canadian science experiment – At Home in Space: How astronauts adapt to life on the International Space Station (ISS)
- Canadian science experiment – Wayfinding: How space flight affects astronauts' brains
- Careers in space – Health science experts
- Relaxing in space
- Health Canada – Mental health and wellness portal
- Health Canada – What is mental health
Things to do
- Space Brain Hack – astronaut mental health edition
- Health in space travelling exhibition – Digital learning kit and experiments
- Activities and experiments
- Youth and educators resources
- Objective: Moon
Infographics
Videos
- Vlog series with Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen
- Video series with European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti aboard the ISS
- How can being in space affect an astronaut's mental health?
- What are some common ways to care for astronauts' mental health?
- How do astronauts deal with difficult situations? Do they get scared?
- Are there any technologies that help astronauts stay connected?
- Do astronauts share meals, celebrate holidays or do activities together?
- What would be the most difficult mental aspects of future long missions?
- ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet explains how crews cope with living in space
- Health in space video series by Ingenium Canada and the CSA
Curriculum links/learning outcomes
The content of this toolkit addresses aspects of:
- Mental, social, physical and emotional health
- Connection between mental and physical health
- How social and emotional health support mental health
- Healthy choices