Teacher: Christopher Wagstaff, Associate Professor, University of Birmingham (UK)

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of mental health nursing, focusing on the assessment and management of substance use, mental illness, and risk. It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address these complex issues effectively. The course is structured around a series of lectures, each covering a specific topic relevant to mental health and substance use.

The lecture on Concepts of Dependence will delve into the psychological and physiological aspects of addiction, providing a foundational understanding of how dependence develops and affects individuals. Assessment of Substance Use will teach students how to evaluate substance use patterns and their impact on mental health, using various assessment tools and techniques.

Dual Diagnosis will address the challenges of managing patients with both mental health disorders and substance use issues, highlighting the importance of integrated treatment approaches. Motivational Interviewing will focus on techniques to encourage patients to engage in treatment and make positive changes in their lives.

The lecture on Substance Use in the Over 50s will explore the unique challenges faced by older adults with substance use issues, including the interplay between aging and addiction. Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar, and OCD lectures will provide in-depth insights into these specific mental health conditions, their symptoms, and management strategies.

Finally, Risk Assessment will cover methods to evaluate and mitigate risks associated with mental illness and substance use, ensuring patient safety and effective care. While the course is tailored to the needs of mental health nursing, it is also valuable for non-nursing students, offering a broad perspective on these critical topics.