Understanding Mental Health Disorders
Designed to help learners recognize the signs, symptoms, and impacts of the most common mental health conditions so they can respond with knowledge, confidence, and care.
Ideal for professionals, caregivers, and concerned individuals alike, this course simplifies complex mental health topics through relatable explanations, case examples, and actionable strategies. Participants will learn how to identify common disorders, communicate without judgment, and guide others toward help — while also taking care of their own mental well-being.
Understanding Mental Health Disorders
Definitions Mental Health vs. Mental Illness
Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on Mental Health
Stigma_ Cultural Considerations_ and Societal Impact
Classification Systems DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 Overview
Global Prevalence and Burden of Mental Health Disorders
Overview of Depressive Disorders (e.g._ Major Depressive Disorder_ Persistent Depressive Disorder)
Overview of Bipolar and Related Disorders (e.g._ Bipolar I _ II)
Symptomatology and Diagnostic Criteria
Etiology Genetic_ Neurobiological_ Psychosocial Factors
Evidence-Based Treatments Medications_ Psychotherapy
Generalized Anxiety Disorder_ Panic Disorder_ Social Anxiety_ Phobias
Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders (OCD_ Hoarding_ Body Dysmorphic Disorder)
Diagnostic Features and Distinctions Between Disorders
Cognitive-Behavioral and Pharmacological Treatment Models
Role of Avoidance_ Fear Conditioning_ and Cognitive Distortions
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Acute Stress Disorder
Adjustment Disorders and Complex Trauma
Neurobiological and Psychological Responses to Trauma
Trauma-Informed Assessment and Care
Treatment Options Exposure Therapy_ EMDR_ CBT
Overview of Personality Disorder Clusters (A_ B_ C)
Focus on Borderline_ Antisocial_ Narcissistic_ and Avoidant Personality Disorders
Diagnostic Criteria and Challenges in Diagnosis
Etiological Factors Developmental and Biological Theories
Treatment Models DBT_ Psychodynamic Therapy_ Schema Therapy
Participants will be able to:
Learners will understand how disorders are categorized and the key features that define each condition.
Participants will be able to identify observable behaviors and experiences that may indicate the presence of a disorder.
Learners will gain insight into biological, psychological, and environmental influences that increase vulnerability to mental health disorders.