Course overview
This course introduces key concepts in mental health and addiction for social workers and human service workers. Students will develop a sound knowledge of the main mental health problems experienced by individuals, historical perspectives on mental health, the nature of the mental health system, mental health policy, legal aspects of mental health, and the role of social workers and human service workers in this context. Students will also gain a broad understanding of addiction to licit and illicit substances and other addictive behaviours. The course specifically explores stigma and the social context of mental health and wellbeing, paying particular attention to the role of human service workers in bringing a social understanding of mental health and evidence-based approaches to their practice. Students will analyse the distinction between mental health and mental illness, mental health interventions including primary health care and recovery paradigm in mental health practice, lived experiences of clients, social work purpose, practice and roles in mental health, and practice in multidisciplinary contexts.
Course learning outcomes
- Identify and articulate the theoretical frameworks, purpose, and roles which guide social work practice in mental health and addiction/substance misuse practice in diverse settings.
- Analyse the contemporary policy contexts of mental health, substance misuse and addictive behaviours and their and its relationship to theoretical frameworks.
- Reflect on and articulate the influence of consumer and carer voices in policy development and service provision in mental health, addiction and addictive behaviours.
- Evaluate the dominant meanings of mental health and mental illness and addiction and their impact upon diverse groups.
- Explain contemporary models of mental health and substance use interventions.
- Locate and critically evaluate evidence of the effectiveness of mental health and substance misuse interventions.
Fee calculator
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Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Social Work program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.