Activity Menu

This illustrated handout presents a variety of activities that support behavioral activation.

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Professional version

Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.

Client version

Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.

Editable version (PPT)

An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.

Overview

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.

Why Use This Resource?

This Activity Menu supports behavioral activation by presenting a wide-variety of possible activities.

  • Describes numerous appealing activities in several life domains.
  • Applicable to a wide range of clients.
  • Ensures activities align with client values and goals.

Key Benefits

Structure

Offers a selection of activities spanning several important life domains.

Variety

Includes diverse options tailored to multiple preferences and interests.

Usability

Supports ease of use for both clinicians and clients.

Flexibility

Can be adapted for different client needs and difficulties.

Who is this for?

Depression

Supports increased activity to improve mood.

Low Motivation

Outlines simple tasks and activities that are easy to initiate.

Social Withdrawal

Describes ways to rebuild social connections and interactions.

Integrating it into your practice

01

Identify

Assess client’s current activity levels and areas of interest.

02

Select

Choose meaningful activities from the menu that align with client values.

03

Plan

Develop a realistic activity schedule.

04

Initiate

Encourage clients to participate in chosen activities.

05

Reflect

Facilitate client reflection on their experiences and achievements, including any changes in mood.

Theoretical Background & Therapist Guidance

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.

What's inside

  • A comprehensive list of activities categorized by domains such as creativity, social engagement, and self-care.
  • Guidance on helping clients select activities that align with their values.
  • Flexible resource that can be used with a wide range of clients.
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FAQs

Help them reflect on their values, interests, and current activity levels. Use the menu as a starting point for discussion and selection.
Start with small, manageable activities and build up gradually. Use client feedback to refine and adapt the activity plan.

How This Resource Improves Clinical Outcomes

Utilizing the Activity Menu enhances clinical outcomes by:

  • Supporting behavioral activation through engagement in rewarding activities.
  • Increasing client motivation by outlining a wide variety of simple and more demanding activities.
  • Facilitating individualized intervention by helping clients select personally meaningful tasks.
  • Therapists benefit from a practical tool that supports evidence-based practice.

References And Further Reading

  • Hopko, D. R., Lejuez, C. W., Ruggiero, K. J., et al (2003b) Contemporary behavioural activation treatments for depression: procedures, principles, and progress. Clinical Psychology Review, 23, 699-717.
  • Martell, C. R., Addis, M. E. & Jacobson, N. S. (2001) Depression in Context: Strategies for Guided Action. Norton.