This illustrated handout presents a variety of activities that support behavioral activation.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.
Helping clients to choose which activities to target during behavioral activation (BA) can be accomplished in a variety of ways: activity monitoring can be used to identify currently rewarding activities; an exploration of client values is a popular way of helping clients to connect with valued life domains; and choosing ‘essential’ activities (such as washing or shopping) is a helpful approach when the client’s activity levels are initially very low. Some depressed clients may have difficulty choosing activities to target during BA even after treatment phases of monitoring activity or exploring values. In these situations it is helpful to have an activity menu from which clients can choose activities without having to self-generate ideas. This illustrated information handout presents lists of activities encompassing a variety of important domains.
This Activity Menu supports behavioral activation by presenting a wide-variety of possible activities.
Supports increased activity to improve mood.
Outlines simple tasks and activities that are easy to initiate.
Describes ways to rebuild social connections and interactions.
Assess client’s current activity levels and areas of interest.
Choose meaningful activities from the menu that align with client values.
Develop a realistic activity schedule.
Encourage clients to participate in chosen activities.
Facilitate client reflection on their experiences and achievements, including any changes in mood.
Behavioral activation (BA) is a well-established, evidence-based treatment for depression. The goal of BA interventions is to help clients increase their engagement in rewarding activities, even if they initially lack motivation. By doing so, individuals can create more opportunities to experience pleasure and achievement, engage in positive social interactions, and act according to their values.
To assist clients in selecting activities to focus on during behavioral activation, various strategies can be employed. Activity monitoring helps identify currently rewarding activities, while exploring a client's values can connect them to important life domains. Additionally, targeting 'essential' activities, such as washing or grocery shopping, can be beneficial when a client’s activity levels are very low.
Some clients with depression may struggle to identify activities even after monitoring their behavior or exploring their values. In such cases, using an activity menu can be an effective solution. This menu offers example activities across several important domains, including connecting with people, cooking, learning, music, nature, and trying new things. This structured approach can help clients more easily choose activities to engage in during their treatment.
