The interface between mental health, drugs and alcohol is highly complex and not necessarily well understood. A example of this is the debate over the nature of the relationship between cannabis and psychotic illness are filling the UK press at the moment and creating a lot of fear and anxiety.

Phrases like 'dual diagnosis' cause workers considerable anxiety. Many feel unskilled in dealing with that and as a consequence clients often feel caught between services and struggle to get appropriate help - this short course introduces the issues and enables workers to examine their role

Clients who have both mental health and drugs issues tend to find it extremely difficult to access decent services often due to poor service co-ordination and prejudice.

Objectives –

by the end of the course participants will be able to:

• discuss how various illegally acquired drugs may be used to alter emotional states

• list ways in which different patterns of drug use may impact on a person’s mental health

• Examine the implications for clients of different models of ‘complex needs’ and ‘dual diagnosis’.

• Review their respective roles, information sharing and referral pathways to ensure the best experience possible for the client

Links to National Occupational Standards

AB2 – support people who use drugs

AF1 – contribute to assessment

MH2 Enable people with mental health needs to access and benefit from service.

Who will benefit from attending?

The learning on this course is essential for all front line workers especially those who may be alone with clients.

Length 1 day– 9:30 – 4:30 (or equivalent)

For information about how we use DANOS click here