The aim of the course is to provide a practical introduction to the nature, epidemiology and treatment of mental health disorders. Lecturers are staff at the CMHR and guest lecturers from other specialties. It is expected that the course will be of interest to postgraduate students with an interest in mental health, professionals working in sectors such as hospitals, employment agencies, nursing homes, or accommodation services, and public servants and administrators who need to keep abreast of the latest empirical findings in mental health research.

On satisfying the requirements for this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
•    Identify key issues in mental health.
•    Understand current theory and practice within the mental health arena.
•    Apply and integrate theoretical knowledge within a realistic practical context (such as hospitals and clinics, government departments, aged care facilities).
•    Conduct a thorough and analytical investigation into a specific current mental health issue.
•    Understand the methods and perspectives used within mental health research, and appreciate the influence of past conceptualisations of mental illness.
•    Develop problem solving and research abilities.
•    Develop critical thinking skills and techniques, particularly in relation to the evaluation of mental health treatment strategies and published research.
•    Communicate ideas and solutions with respect to salient issues in mental health in both oral (through tutorials) and written formats (through the assessment item).

Assessment is anticipated to include a 4000 word assignment investigating a particular mental health issue (50%), a tutorial presentation (30%) and attendance/participation (20%).

TIMETABLE the schedule will be 9am-4pm on Mondays and Fridays for three consecutive weeks (total of 36 contact hours) on,

Mon 4th July

Fri 8th July

Mon 11th July

Fri 15th July

Mon 18th July

Fri 22nd July

36 hours of lectures, tutorials and workshops/online activities/presentations.

Nil