Mental health - a global priority

Mental illness and related disorders are a growing global health concern, requiring proactive and sustainable efforts to meet the demand for interventions at various levels from global to local. This course would primarily aim at building the knowledge of students on various mental health problems, the regional differences, and how those concerns emerge and what needs to be done. Moreover, the course will include the mental health policies and novel interventions adopted by various organizations in meeting the mental health needs of different populations, and the need for inter-sectoral coordination to develop appropriate structure and systems.

Learning Outcomes

Course Contents

Global and public mental health: key policies and systems; Concepts: Normality, abnormality, mental health and mental illness; Attitudes and beliefs pertaining to mental illness: Ancient, medieval and modern times. Stigma and discrimination towards mental illnesses; The role of various socio-cultural factors in diagnosis and providing care for persons with mental illness; Concept of support groups Rehabilitation of persons with chronic mental illness; Community Mental Health; National, State and District Mental Health Program; Legal and ethical guidelines for mental health practice; Promotional and preventive interventions; Innovations in mental health interventions & services; Psychological first-aid; Mental health interventions during the time of crisis / disasters; Taking care of personal well-being.

Pre-requisites

Name of the Coordinators

Dr. Teddy Andrews J
Dr. Lena Ashok

Distinctive Features

Offered by

Department. of Social and Health Innovation, Prasanna School of Public Health, MAHE