MHS1101 · Introduction to mental health and contemporary mental health needs

Overview

This unit provides an overview of how mental illness is defined, identified and managed in the Australian mental health care system. You will learn the foundational principles including the major theories used to understand mental illness, how mental disorders are diagnosed, and the ways in which evidence-based treatments are used in the management of these disorders. You will be able to describe the current model of Australian mental health care including the various care settings, the ethical consideration needed, and the frameworks for classification of mental illness. You will learn about mental health across the lifespan and the need to understand the lived-experience of consumers within the mental health care system.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Evaluate the different factors that contribute to mental health and illness.
2. Critically review and reflect on the different ways mental health and disorders are conceptualised.
3. Distinguish between the signs and symptoms of common forms of mental disorders.
4. Discuss the rationale for the common treatments for mental disorders.
5. Appraise the needs of people with a lived and living experience of mental health, and mental illness, and discuss how this knowledge is integrated into their personal recovery plan.
6. Distinguish between the different professionals, organisations, clinical services and legislation that are involved in mental health care.

Workload

6 hours of teacher directed study per week, comprising 6 hours of Moodle content (videos, readings, activities). 6 hours per week of self-directed study. Total per week = 12 hours

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.