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Understanding Serious Mental Illness

Course #: 06-1450

Price: $12.00

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CE Credit Hours: 2.00 Continuing Education Credit Hours

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How to Take This Course:

  • 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
  • 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
  • 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
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CE Course Description

Serious mental illness (SMI) is defined as a mental, behavioral, and emotional disorder resulting in serious functional impairment that substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. The burden of mental illness is particularly concentrated among those who experience disability due to SMI. SMIs such as schizophrenia, severe bipolar disorder, or major depression impact roughly 5% of the US population and are very costly on a number of levels. This course will prepare behavioral health professionals to meet the complex needs of those experiencing severe mental illness.

CE Course Objectives

  1. Identify the diagnostic criteria, prevalence, and risk factors associated with various serious mental illness diagnoses. 
  2. Examine treatment approaches and interventions, including psychopharmacology, in managing serious mental illness. 
  3. Explore what impact SMI has on and what resources can be put into place to support individuals, families, and communities.
CE Course Outline

Introduction to Serious Mental Illness (10 minutes)

  • Overview and Importance (10 minutes)

Serious Mental Illness Data and Prevalence (15 minutes)

  • Statistics and Key Insights (15 minutes)

Understanding SMI (20 minutes)

  • Early Warning Signs and Symptoms (10 minutes)
  • Criteria for SMI Diagnosis (10 minutes)

Common Disorders Associated with SMI (45 minutes)

  • Schizophrenia (10 minutes)
  • Major Depressive Disorder (10 minutes)
  • Bipolar Disorder (10 minutes)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (5 minutes)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (5 minutes)
  • Borderline Personality Disorder (5 minutes)

Assessment and Impacts (15 minutes)

  • Assessment Methods (5 minutes)
  • Impacts of SMI on Individuals and Families (10 minutes)

Care Provision and Support Options (25 minutes)

  • Types of Care Provision & Care Options (10 minutes)
  • Self-Care for Persons with SMI (10 minutes)
  • Ways for Caregivers to Provide Support (5 minutes)

Addressing Challenges and Resources (20 minutes)

  • Stigma and Its Effects (10 minutes)
  • Supportive Resources and Community Programs (10 minutes)

Cultural and Ethical Considerations (10 minutes)

  • Cultural Sensitivity in Care (5 minutes)
  • Ethical Considerations in Treatment (5 minutes)

Conclusion (5 minutes)

Total Time: 2 Hours
Course Level: Introductory

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Course Date: 2023-12-14

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If you require ADA or other special needs accommodations, please contact us by email: support@mindfulceus.com or by phone 1-800-413-3797, so arrangements can be made.


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