Exploring the complex relationship between drugs and mental health, enabling workers to address this issue holistically and with confidence

This course is aimed at more experienced staff who are working in drugs, mental health, housing and social care services supporting people with multiple disadvantage and have some previous drugs awareness training.

Objectives: By the end of the course, participants will:

• Understand the interrelationship between drugs and mental health
• Be able to explore complex situations and identify drug and mental health components
• Understand different patterns of drug use amongst people with mental health issues
• Assess risk and respond appropriately
• Be aware of risk factors and interactions
• The course includes:
• Exploration of “multiple needs” and “dual diagnosis”
• The effects of various drugs in mental health,
• Understanding the function of drugs on brain chemistry
• Understanding the function of brain chemistry on mental health
• The use of non-prescribed drugs to “self medicate”
• Key interactions between prescribed and non-prescribed drugs
• Assessing risk factors and reducing risk
• Services and strategies for working with drugs and mental health