On Demand (eLearning)
Course Overview
This course is suggested as a preparatory course for the Concurrent Disorders Certificate Program.
One in five Canadians experiences a mental health problem in a given year. This five-module, self-directed online course explores basic concepts of mental health and mental illness. We look at the prevalence of mental health problems in Canada, the risk and protective factors that influence mental health, and the links between mental health and the social determinants of health. We explore the importance of creating a safe space for clients and developing a positive therapeutic relationship. We also describe the various treatments for mental health challenges-including psychoeducation, lifestyle changes, medications and psychotherapy-and explore additional strategies to support clients and their families.
Learning Objectives
After successfully completing the course, participants will be able to:
- explain the prevalence of mental health issues
- describe the link between the social determinants of health and mental health challenges
- outline the components of building a positive therapeutic alliance with a client
- describe the signs and symptoms of common mental health challenges, including depressing, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder
- describe assessment and treatment approaches for common mental health challenges
- discuss strategies to support clients and their families.
Certification and Accreditation
Continuing Professional Development has awarded the Fundamentals of Mental Health Online Course with the following credits:
- College of Family Physicians of Canada Mainpro+ (1 credit/hour) Self-Learning: 15.0 credits
- Royal College Maintenance of Certification Section 1: 15.0 hours
Delivery Method
Online.
Course Requirements
- Complete the pre-course survey
- Allocate a minimum of two to three hours per week to read the course content
- Complete Modules 1 to 5, including each end-of-module quiz
- Complete all end-of-module reflection questions and the post-course survey
The course is self-directed and self-paced, and can be worked on at any time until the course end date. However, participants are recommended to set aside two to three hours per week to complete each module.
Please note: This course requires you to use an internet browser, but the system does not support Microsoft Internet Explorer. Instead, use one of the following:
- Apple Safari
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
For more details, please read the browser and compatibility support page.