MHA-140 Intro to Mental Health
MHA-140 Intro to Mental Health is a three-credit college course designed to provide students with a broad introduction to the field of mental health and the systems that support individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
The course explores the importance of mental wellness, the historical development of mental health care, ethical responsibilities in providing care, and the roles of professionals and support staff who work in a variety of treatment settings. Students gain a foundational understanding of how mental health services are organized across public, private, and community-based environments.
Major Topics Covered
The course introduces students to several key areas of study, including:
- The history and evolution of mental health care systems.
- Definitions and examples of common mental health challenges.
- The impact of mental health on individuals, families, and communities.
- The roles, responsibilities, and ethical obligations of mental health workers and support staff.
- Differences between public, private, and non-profit mental health care environments.
- Current approaches to mental wellness, prevention, and treatment.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of MHA-140, students should be able to:
- Discuss the overall impact of mental health on individuals and society.
- Describe the historical development of mental health treatment and care systems.
- Identify and explain common mental health challenges using appropriate terminology.
- Compare different mental health treatment settings and the services they provide.
- Analyze the duties, qualifications, and professional expectations of mental health support staff.
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical principles that guide mental health care, including respect, confidentiality, and professional responsibility.
Modules Covered in the Course
Throughout the course, students examine common mental health challenges and the terminology used to describe them while considering the social, cultural, and personal impacts of mental health. Attention is also given to the history of treatment, changing attitudes toward mental illness, and current trends in wellness and treatment. The course emphasizes the importance of professionalism, ethical decision-making, confidentiality, and effective communication when working with individuals receiving mental health services.
- Module 1: Introduction to mental health and wellness
- Module 2: Historical overview of Mental health services
- Module 3: Common mental health challenges
- Module 4: Roles and responsibilities of mental health professionals
- Module 5: Mental Health treatment settings
- Module 6: Education, Certification and Licensure
- Module 7: Trends and emerging issues in mental health care
- Module 8: Wrap-up and reflection
