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Transforming the understanding
and treatment of mental illnesses.

Video Series: Jane the Brain

A cartoon brain with a face, arms, and legs, named "Jane the Brain." The brain character has purple hair tied in pigtails with pink bows and large, expressive eyes. The text "Jane the Brain" is written above the character, with "Jane" in orange and "the brain" in black.

Hello kids, meet Jane the Brain! In this fun and colorful video series from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Jane, our super-smart and friendly animated character, helps kids understand big feelings like stress, frustration, and sadness. Join Jane as she explores ways to handle these emotions with relatable situations and helpful tips and coping skills.

Find additional educational videos, coloring books, and hands-on quizzes and activities to educate kids about mental health in Resources for Students and Educators.

Episode 1: Jane the Brain and the Stress Mess

Jane has a big test coming up, and did we mention a science fair project too?? Learn more about how stress affects the brain and join Jane as she learns important skills like box breathing to help her manage stress.

Audio description version 

Episode 2: Jane the Brain and the Frustration Sensation

Ugh, sometimes things can be so hard! Find out how frustration affects the body and brain and follow along with Jane as she learns tips to handle that frustration sensation.

Audio description version 

Episode 3: Jane the Brain and the Upset Reset

Jane is usually cheery, but her best friend is moving away and she’s understandably sad. See how sadness affects the brain and what Jane learns to do to help herself feel better.

Audio description version