MENTAL ILLNESS AND SUBSTANCE USE: understanding the complex relationship
Course Overview
Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe co-existing mental health and substance misuse problems. It is also called dual disorder or co-morbidity.
This course examines the complex interaction between drug and alcohol use and mental illness such as anxiety disorders, severe depression, psychosis and schizophrenia. The course explores how specific drugs affect brain chemistry and may exacerbate pre-existing conditions.
The course is suitable for staff who work with clients who use substances and have mental health conditions and who require a better understanding of how to support those with a ‘dual diagnosis’.
What you will learn
- To develop a clear definition of dual diagnosis or co-occuring disorders.
- To understand the key guidance for professionals around dual diagnosis.
- To examine the effects that drugs such as cocaine, alcohol and benzodiazepines can have on mental health conditions.
- To explore the risk factors of mixing street drugs and psychiatric medication.
- To understand the psychology of the addictive process and relapse.
- To explore the options for supporting those with a dual diagnosis.
Course materials
Each participant will receive the course information book, and a copy of the presentation materials used on the day.
Delivery options
- Fully interactively via Zoom enabling delegates to join from wherever they are. The Zoom training has all the qualities of in person training – group work, video case studies, Q and A thouroughout – but at a reduced cost and with no travel/accomodation expenses. The course usually lasts from 9.15a.m. to 1.15p.m. for those booking the course for in-house staff training the timings can be adapted to suit your particular needs and requirements.
- Face to Face Delivery at your own venue. The timings can be adapted to suit your particular needs and requirements.
This course is available as an In-House training course for your staff team and as an Open Course if you want to book an individual or small group onto a multiagency course.