Top Tips: Behavioural Activation

This resource offers practical strategies to help young people engage in meaningful activities. It includes guidance on breaking tasks into manageable steps, setting reminders, and sharing plans with others for added support. Tips also address common challenges, such as when activities feel too difficult or when mood remains low despite being active. 

There is a focus on fostering self-compassion, encouraging users to be kind to themselves, celebrate small successes, and gradually build up to more challenging tasks.  

References and Further Reading

  • Pass, L., Reynolds, S., & Pimas, M. (2021). Brief behavioural activation for adolescent depression: A clinician’s manual and session-by-session guide. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. 
  • McCauley, E., Schloredt, K. A., Gudmundsen, G. R., Martell, C. R., & Dimidjian, S. (n.d.). Behavioural activation with adolescents: A clinician’s guide. 
  • Pass, L., Whitney, H., & Reynolds, S. (2016). Brief behavioural activation for adolescent depression. Clinical Case Studies, 15(5), 360–375. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534650116645402.
  • Reynolds, S., & Parkinson, M. (2015). Am I depressed and what can I do about it? A CBT self-help guide for teenagers experiencing low mood and depression. London: Robinson. 
  • Dummett, N., & Williams, C. (2008). Overcoming teenage low mood and depression: A five areas approach. London: Hodder Arnold.