The FETAC Level 5 Understanding Mental Health component certificate is delivered in Dublin, Limerick, Sligo and Dundalk as a 10 week part time course consisting of 3 hours of lecture time per week; 30 hours total classroom time. Students must attend at least 80% of all the classes and complete all the necessary assessments in order to be eligible for certification through FETAC.

FETAC Level 5 Understanding Mental Health Component Certificate

Learners who successfully complete the FETAC Level 5 Minor Award in Understanding Mental Health course will:

1. understand the concepts of mental health, positive mental health and mental ill-health 
2. be familiar with the Irish Mental Health System 
3. have gained an understanding of how different mental health problems impact on people’s lives 
4. be able to meet a range of identified needs within the context of their role

Students will receive handouts and relevant literature to enable them to develop their understanding of mental health appropriate to this level. The course is aimed at participants who wish to expand their knowledge of mental health and mental illness. In each session students will have the opportunity to learn about mental health, the supports and services that are available in Ireland and how to work with people who experience mental health problems. Role-plays and scenarios will be used to enhance the groups understanding of mental health and mental illness and to discover the various treatment options that are available. This multi-disciplinary module operates under Adult Education Principles focusing on experiential learning.

This FETAC Understanding Mental Health Course is divided into 5 main units:

1. Positive Mental Health 
2. Mental Health Supports and Services 
3. Working with and/or caring for People who experience Mental Health Problems 
4. Understanding Assessment, Diagnosis and Approaches to Treatment and Care. 
5. Personal Perspectives

• To build on and expand existing knowledge in relation to mental health and mental illness issues within the group. 
• To enhance confidence in participants in relation to their understanding of mental health. 
• To examine the range of treatment approaches and supports and services which are available in regard to mental health in Ireland 
• To allow space and time for participants to look at assessment, diagnosis and approaches to treatment and care in relation to mental illness. 
• To have gained a deep understanding of positive mental health. 
• To allow participants to explore their own mental health and mental well-being 
• To learn how to work with and care for people who experience mental health problems

While there are no specific entry requirements, FETAC and The Learning Curve Institute have the following preferred entry requirements for this course:

Level 4 Certificate in an associated or relevant subject area, Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualifications and/or relevant life and work experiences.

All assessment is carried out in accordance with FETAC regulations. Assessment is devised by the course director, with external moderation by FETAC. Assessment for this FETAC Level 5 Understanding Mental Health course takes place in the following format:

• Assignment - 40% 
• Skills Demonstrations (2 x 30% each) - 60%

The Learning Curve Institute offers a unique post-course support system whereby students are provided with the contact details of the lecturer and are free to contact him/her with any questions they may have or queries with which they would like the lecturers help.

All materials will be provided by The Learning Curve Institute.

Below are dates and venues for the FETAC Understanding Mental Health Component Certificate at Level 6 on The National Framework of Qualifications:

Please contact The Learning Curve Institute on 098 25530 or info@thelearningcurve.ie for more information and to book a place on the course.