This foundational course explores the core concepts underlying the identification and classification of mental disorders. Students will examine how mental disorders are defined across various diagnostic systems (e.g., DSM, ICD) and analyze the criteria that distinguish disordered behavior from normative psychological variation. The course will address the historical and cultural evolution of the concept of mental illness, with attention to how social, political, and scientific forces have shaped contemporary understandings.

Key characteristics of mental disorders—including cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns—will be explored in relation to functional impairment and distress. The course also critically examines the process and impact of labeling individuals with psychiatric diagnoses, considering both the clinical utility and the potential for stigma, stereotyping, and identity alteration.

Students will gain a nuanced understanding of how mental disorders are conceptualized, diagnosed, and socially constructed, and how these processes affect individuals and communities.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Define what constitutes a mental disorder and differentiate it from subclinical distress or dysfunction.
2. Understand the key characteristics and criteria used in major diagnostic frameworks.
3. Explore the historical and cultural contexts of mental illness classification.
4. Critically analyze the effects of diagnostic labeling on individual identity, stigma, and treatment outcomes.
5. Reflect on the ethical and clinical implications of assigning psychiatric labels.

• This course provides a comprehensive exploration of depression, one of the most common and impactful mental health disorders worldwide. Students will examine the clinical features, subtypes, and diagnostic criteria of depressive disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia), and other mood-related conditions. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how depression manifests across different ages, cultures, and life contexts.

  The course explores the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the onset and maintenance of depression. Special attention will be given to the roles of neurobiology, cognitive distortions, trauma, loss, and sociocultural influences. In addition, students will review evidence-based treatment approaches, including pharmacological interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and emerging modalities such as mindfulness-based interventions and neurostimulation techniques.

  Through case studies and reflective discussion, students will develop a well-rounded understanding of depression, its impact on individuals and society, and the principles of effective, compassionate care.

  Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the diagnostic features and variations of depressive disorders.
2. Understand the multifactorial causes of depression, including biological and psychosocial contributors.
3. Explore the lived experience and societal impact of depression.
4. Evaluate evidence-based treatment approaches and their applications.
5. Consider ethical, cultural, and developmental issues in assessing and treating depression.

• This course focuses on the early recognition and understanding of depression triggers and the identification of symptoms across diverse populations and clinical presentations. Students will learn to identify common internal and external factors that can trigger depressive episodes, including life stressors, trauma, chronic illness, substance use, social isolation, and cognitive patterns. Emphasis will be placed on how these triggers interact with individual vulnerability and resilience.

  The course also provides detailed instruction on identifying core and associated symptoms of depression, as outlined in major diagnostic frameworks (DSM-5TR, ICD-11), with attention to how depression may present differently by age, gender, culture, and co-occurring conditions. Through lectures, real-world case examples, and self-assessment tools, students will build foundational skills in observing, screening, and responding to signs of depression in clinical and community settings.

  Learning Objectives:

  At the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify common psychological, biological, and environmental triggers of depression.
2. Recognize core symptoms and early warning signs of depressive disorders.
3. Understand the variability of depressive presentations across age groups and cultural backgrounds.
4. Apply basic screening and observation techniques for symptom identification.
5. Explore the role of stress, trauma, and chronic adversity in triggering depressive episodes.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the clinical skills and strategies required to effectively design, implement, and evaluate treatment plans for individuals experiencing depression. Grounded in evidence-based practices, the course guides students through the process of comprehensive assessment, individualized goal setting, treatment modality selection, and progress monitoring.

Students will examine a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), behavioral activation, and pharmacological interventions. The course emphasizes integrative and person-centered treatment planning, considering the severity of symptoms, co-occurring disorders, cultural and developmental factors, and client preferences. Attention will also be given to risk assessment (e.g., suicidality), treatment adherence, and collaborative care models.

Using clinical case studies, treatment planning frameworks, and role-play exercises, students will build the practical skills necessary to translate diagnostic insight into actionable, measurable, and adaptable treatment plans that support long-term recovery.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Conduct a comprehensive clinical assessment to inform treatment planning for depression.
2. Develop individualized treatment goals and select appropriate therapeutic modalities.
3. Understand how to adapt treatment based on severity, comorbidities, and client context.
4. Implement structured interventions and monitor client progress over time.
5. Apply ethical, culturally responsive, and evidence-based principles to treatment planning.