Positive psychiatry and mental health

In today’s world, mental illness and suffering are common and represent a significant burden of disability in our community. At the same time, there is increasing interest in understanding and improving positive mental health and well-being, particularly from developments in the fields of positive psychology and mental health promotion. Positive psychiatry is a new term (Jeste et al., 2016) that describes a two-pronged approach to mental health, in which we develop strengths, supports and healthy lifestyles, in addition to treating illness and distress. In this course, we will explore different aspects of good mental health, as well as providing an overview of the main types of mental disorders, their causes, treatments and how to seek help and support. The course will feature a wide range of Australian experts in psychiatry, psychology and mental health research, and we will also hear from “lived experience experts”, people who have lived with mental illness, and will share their personal stories of recovery.

We take an evidence-based approach to a range of strategies anyone can use to improve their own and others’ mental health, from exercise and relaxation techniques to the role of love, relationships and “good” types of work . We cover topics from creativity and yoga to psychiatric medications and psychotherapies.