Mental Disorders in Disability Practice (DST319)

This course examines the presentation, assessment, and support of mental disorders within disability-focused practice. Students will explore how mental health conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder) intersect with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including ASD, ADHD, Intellectual Disability and Specific Learning Disorders such as dyslexia. Emphasis is placed on understanding how these conditions may co-occur, assessing their symptoms and developmental trajectories, as well as planning interventions in healthcare community, and educational settings. The course also addresses ethical considerations, stigma, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in supporting individuals with complex psychological needs.

• Foundations of Mental disorders
• Clinical Assessment
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders I: General Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety, and Social Anxiety
• Anxiety Disorders II: Specific Phobias and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder
• Major Depressive Disorder
• Suicide and Self-harm
• Bipolar Disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
• Eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

• Discuss the clinical features and diagnostic criteria of mental disorders relevant to disability contexts.
• Examine the theories of mental disorders that commonly co-morbid with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
• Analyse how co-occurring mental health challenges in individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities impact global functioning across different life stages.
• Organise relevant clinical information about individuals with mental health and disability profiles for intervention.
• Design a support plan that integrates mental health and disability considerations across healthcare, community, or educational settings.
• Assess the support plan in relation to mental health services in the community and family resources.