Mental Health and Ageing (PSYT90092)

In this subject the implications of mental health and ageing are explored from a range of bio-medical and social perspectives. Lecture topics include understanding the distinction between mental health and mental illness, placing mental health and ageing within a lifespan framework with an emphasis on cognitive changes in later life and managing common mental health disorders in older age. Screening, assessment and psychological interventions for these common conditions are covered, including late life delusional disorders, substance use and abuse, anxiety and personality disorders, delirium and dementia, depression and pain. This subject also discusses demographic projections for mental health disorders and considers strategies to support an ageing worldwide population, including mental health promotion.