Critical Approaches to Co-occurring Mental Health and Addictions
2026-27 Year of entry
The module aims to help you critically explore issues influencing the approach to the care of individuals coping with co-morbid mental health and substance use conditions (i.e. dual diagnosis) with due regard to policies, research, evidenced based practice, and workforce development/training.
/298x0:6402x4467/prod01/channel_3/media/middlesex-university/homepage-images/007---College-Building-min.jpg)
Course Overview
You will ensure and promote high standards of clinical and patient safety in the screening and management of individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use conditions.
This module is ideal for health care professionals, particularly those working with individuals with identified co-morbid mental health and substance use conditions.
Course content
Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:
- Critically appraise the concept of dual diagnosis, comment on aetiology, prevalence, risk, and policies relevant to current ‘dual diagnosis’ practice and research
- Analyse the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to co-morbid mental health and substance use
- Critically examine the complexities surrounding the relationship between mental health and substance use symptoms and substances
- Critically assess the benefits of co-production and collaboration with service users and carers in delivering co-produced care and services.
Module Content
- History and emergence of ‘dual diagnosis’ as a concept
- How ‘dual diagnosis’ is perceived ‘internationally’ and issues of ‘definition’
- Attitudes to dual diagnosis and workforce ‘readiness’ challenges
- Prevalence; Aetiology; Prevalence, Risk and Outcomes
- The interaction of mental health symptoms / substances
- Related policies and service developments; service models & delivery issues
- Coproduction and service user and carers empowerment
Learning and teaching
Teaching on this module is delivered entirely online, with all scheduled sessions taking place via Microsoft Teams. The module adopts an online, student-centred approach to learning that combines synchronous and asynchronous activities to support engagement, flexibility, and the development of advanced knowledge and skills.
A range of teaching methods are employed to promote active participation. These include structured presentations supported by PowerPoint, interactive group work, and scenario-based learning designed to encourage critical thinking and the application of theory to practice. Digital technologies are used extensively to enhance learning, including video resources and interactive platforms. Students are expected to engage with preparatory and consolidation activities to reinforce learning and support independent study.
Formative assessment is embedded within the module to provide ongoing feedback and support students’ academic development. This enables learners to reflect on their progress, identify areas for improvement, and build confidence in meeting the module learning outcomes.
Assessment
Summative assessment scheme
You will submit a 4,000 word essay in relation to the syllabus covered by identifying challenges facing people with dual diagnosis (at the level of practice, policy, and service delivery). You will be required to select, justify, and evaluate their choices/focus and offer solutions to the challenges.
How to apply
To be eligible for this module, you must provide evidence of an ability to study at Level 7.
Apply for this module through our .
Download an enquiry form for more information on the application process. Applications to this module should be made directly to the university, apply for a CPD module or programme.