Mental Health Awareness

Course details

Our Mental Health Awareness programme is aimed at those within community, healthcare, voluntary or other sectors that require an understanding of mental health issues and supports. The programme aims to equip the learner with the necessary skills to apply best practice guidelines when interacting with people who present with mental health difficulties and those experiencing thoughts of suicide.

Who should complete this programme?

This programme may be suitable for anyone who is interested in developing their knowledge in this area including job seekers wishing to up skill in order to re-enter the workforce. It will involve excellent professional and personal development as the knowledge, skills and competencies learned can apply to many areas of life.

Course Overview

The following modules are completed within this programme:

• Mental Health Awareness & Suicide Prevention
• Supplementary Certificate in QPR (Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Program)

Course Outcomes

Upon completion of the Mental Health Awareness programme, learners will:

• Acquire an understanding of the theoretical background associated with mental health/suicide issues.
• Identify and discuss strategies to maintain positive mental health.
• Examine the moral, ethical and legal considerations associated with mental health.
• Recognize the barriers to positive mental health.
• Discuss the advantage and disadvantages of treatment approaches.
• Describe the symptoms and characteristics of mental illness/suicide.
• Explain the role of the relevant associated mental health professionals (GP,CPN, psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, social worker, rehabilitation professionals, and occupational therapists).
• Outline the various models used in understanding mental illness and suicide prevention.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of treatment approaches.
• Describe the recovery process and outline the recovery movement in Ireland.
• Understand key issues relating to current legislation.
• Examine the features of recovery.
• Demonstrate an awareness of the ongoing interventions available in the community for people with enduring mental health difficulties.
• Evaluate positive supports in the community which promote positive mental health.
• Apply best practice in working with individuals with mental health difficulties or those who are at risk of suicide.

Entry Requirements

Candidate must hold a Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualification to a level 5 on the National Framework of qualifications. Visit www.nfq.ie for more information.