• A background in healthcare, specifically in general practice, primary care, or nursing home settings.
• Familiarity with the basics of mental health assessment and management.
• Experience in working with patients across different age groups, including adolescents and older persons.
• A commitment to improving mental health care and outcomes for patients with neurological conditions and learning disabilities.
• Willingness to actively engage in discussions, case studies, and group activities during the programme.
• An open-minded approach to learning about innovative and evidence-based practices in mental health care.

• Recognise and identify common mental health issues in adolescents, older persons, and individuals with neurological conditions and learning disabilities.
• Apply evidence-based strategies for early detection, intervention, and management of mental health challenges in these specific populations.
• Enhance communication skills to effectively engage with patients, caregivers, and families to support mental well-being.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of mental health on patients’ overall health and quality of life.
• Develop person-centred care plans that consider the unique needs and preferences of individuals with mental health challenges in diverse care settings, including nursing homes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide holistic and integrated mental health care for patients in general practice and primary care, including nursing homes.
• Recognize the role of self-care and resilience-building strategies for both healthcare professionals and patients in managing mental health challenges.
• Implement best practices and evidence-based approaches to promote mental well-being and reduce stigma associated with mental health in these specific patient populations.

Aims

The Mental Health Programme for Healthcare Professionals in General Practice and Primary Care, including Nursing Homesand community centre’s, aims to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to enhance the understanding, identification, and management of mental health challenges across diverse age groups, particularly in adolescents, older persons, and individuals with neurological conditions and learning disabilities.

• Registered Mental Health Nurses
• General Practitioners (GPs) and Family Physicians
• Primary Care Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers
• Nurses and Nurse Practitioners in General Practice and Primary Care
• Mental Health Specialists and Psychiatrists working in Primary Care Settings
• Allied Health Professionals (Psychologists, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists)
• Healthcare Professionals providing care in Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities