Paramedics are in a privileged and unique position to provide 24/7 care to our community. We know that over the last few decades, the ideas around mental illness and mental health have changed, and greater attention is being paid by governments at all levels.

As a community of practice, we also know there are no algorithms in providing sensitive clinical care to this population of people. Instead, we draw on our clinical knowledge, empathetic approach, and well-honed communication skills to provide the care people need. As you know, there is no one-size-fits-all care in mental health.

This first, highly interactive module on mental illness will provide you with a comprehensive refresher, and an opportunity to reflect on your knowledge and skills in this area.

The learning outcomes of the module include:

• Understand common mental illnesses in the community
• Identify the clinical features of common mental illnesses
• Identify the considerations of care across the multi-disciplinary team
• Apply the mental state examination to a myriad of mental health concerns

We will review five common mental illnesses that paramedics are likely to see in their practice:

• Bipolar disorder
• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety
• Schizophrenia
• Borderline personality disorder.