COURSE CURRICULUM

The program in Mental Health and Addiction provides a comprehensive foundation in understanding the complexities of mental health issues, addiction, and recovery. The module Understanding Mental Health & Addiction introduces students to the intricate relationship between mental health, distress, madness, and addiction. Students explore historical, sociological, cultural, spiritual, and health perspectives to develop a critical understanding of problematic behaviors and substances, including emerging issues such as gaming, social media, and pornography addiction. In the Psychiatric Perspectives on Mental Health & Addiction module, students delve into the spectrum of disorders associated with substance use and addictive behaviors, such as alcohol, opioids, and gambling. Using diagnostic tools like DSM-5 and ICD-11, students will assess and diagnose these disorders while exploring treatment approaches and international standards for prevention and treatment. Understanding Social Research & Evaluation equips students with the skills to conduct social research and address practice-based problems. This module focuses on research methodologies, ethical considerations, and the process of formulating research proposals, preparing students to design and execute valid and reliable research projects. Global Routes to Recovery explores the global forces shaping mental health and addiction, with an emphasis on poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. This module also examines alternative recovery methods, such as psychedelic-based therapies and global debates around the war on drugs. Harm Reduction & Social Support introduces students to harm reduction strategies, focusing on non-coercive, non-judgmental approaches that prioritize human rights and community well-being. Finally, the Dissertation module provides students with the opportunity to conduct independent, advanced research on a topic of their choice, demonstrating their ability to integrate theory and practice through a final, original piece of work. This program offers a robust exploration of mental health and addiction, preparing students for careers in research, policy, and practice.