DSRS9069 Mental Health, Disability and Rehabilitation

This topic provides an opportunity to explore a range of mental health issues which may include anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dual disability, with emphasis on functional implications to be considered in rehabilitation and related community settings. Consumers, carers and other guest speakers with lived experience and expertise in approaches to managing mental health issues from psychosocial, medical and occupational perspectives will participate in delivering some aspects of topic content. Students will be encouraged to draw on previous work and practicum experiences, and to apply new knowledge and skills gained through participation in this topic to current work and practicum settings.

This topic aims to:

• Provide a clear overview of theory and practice in relation to mental health issues which are often encountered as either primary or secondary factors in rehabilitation and disability service settings, and in the community
• Encourage students with a particular interest in this area of study and future work as a rehabilitation professional to pursue practicum experience which will facilitate the application and extension of introductory knowledge and skills gained in this area

1. Demonstrate increased knowledge of the nature, prevalence and factors influencing the existence of mental health issues in the community
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of mental health issues on the lives of clients and significant others
3. Demonstrate awareness of government policy impacting the provision of mental health services
4. Demonstrate awareness of the range of positive options available for managing mental health issues, from consumer and service provider perspectives
5. Demonstrate enhanced appreciation of ethical, legal and professional factors associated with mental health issues, and of the critical role of advocacy as a positive skill in this area of practice
6. Demonstrate an appreciation of the importance of effective counselling and case management skills to facilitate professional practice in relation to mental health issues
7. Demonstrate increased awareness of the network of specialist and generic organisations providing services and support in this field