Global Mental Health

Course Description

Mental health issues are among the leading causes of disability world-wide and according to the World Health Organization mental health concerns will emerge as the leading cause of disability-adjusted life years by 2030. Despite growing recognition and documentation of the burdens mental health issues place on individuals, caregivers, and communities, there remain large global disparities in access to resources and delivery of effective mental health care. This course will survey the evolution of and current approaches to mental healthcare across a wide range of contexts with a particular focus on low and middle-income countries. Readings will draw from studies and policy reports examining mental health programs, barriers to implementation, and cross-sector strategies for reducing gaps and building mental health capacity in diverse contexts.

Learner Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate familiarity with the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in Global Mental Health
• Students will have an understanding in research methods employed in Global Mental Health
• Students will use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and, the use of multiple sources of information when analyzing, interpreting, and discussing materials covered throughout the course
• Students will have a basic understanding of the kinds of organizations and sectors that carry out work in the field of Global Mental Health