This is Module 1 of the Practical Approach to Mental Health Care course. The whole course consists of 4 modules and is for registered nurses, doctors and rehabilitation and therapeutic health professionals in Western Cape Government.

 Module 1 covers foundational mental health concepts, including trauma, cultural sensitivities and wellness strategies.

About the course

  • Course Design: Self-directed

  • Duration: It will take approximately 4-5 hours to complete.

  • Eligibility for this course: Healthcare professional working in the Western Cape.

  • Certification: Participants need 70% pass mark for final quiz.

  • Published: September 2024

If you are a Western Cape Government employee, apply to start:

Apply to enroll

Course curriculum

The following topics are covered in Module 1:

1. Understanding Mental Health & Mental Illness

Part 1: Introduction, mental health & the trauma response

  • Mental health & wellness
    1. Thoughts, feelings & behaviour
  • Understanding trauma
    • Types of trauma
    • The trauma response

Part 2: Culture-sensitive care

  • Culture-sensitive care
    • What culture is
    • Verbal & non-verbal communication
    • Perception of time
    • Perception of space
    • Race & ethnicity
    • Social organisation
    • Perceptions of health & illness

2. Integrating Mental Health into Everyday Practice

  • Screening
    • Key reasons to screen
    • Barriers to screening
  • Record-keeping
  • A person-centred approach to managing mental illness 
    1. Integrated care
    2. Pharmacological management 
    3. Non-pharmacological interventions
    4. Legal & ethical considerations
    5. Crisis management
    6. Health promotion & education 

3. Self-Care

  • CBT self-help strategies
    • Thought monitoring & cognitive reframing
    • Behaviour activation
    • Relaxation techniques
  • Ensuring wellbeing in the healthcare environment
    • Protect yourself from occupational infection
    • Protect yourself from occupational stress
    • Support services


Western Cape Government Department of Health and Wellness
People Development Centre

Acknowledgements:

  • Knowledge Translation Unit