In contemporary society, mental health challenges represent a significant and growing contributor to individual and collective well-being concerns, affecting communities across social, cultural, and economic contexts. At the same time, there is increasing recognition that mental health is not merely the absence of illness but a dynamic state shaped by resilience, meaning, connection, and purpose. This course, Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health, is grounded in the principles of well-being psychology, an emerging field that integrates the treatment of mental illness with the cultivation of psychological strengths, supportive environments, and sustainable lifestyles. Through an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach, the course explores both the foundations of positive mental health and the major categories of mental disorders, including their causes, treatments, and pathways to support. Drawing on insights from leading Australian experts in psychiatry, psychology, and mental health research, alongside perspectives from individuals with lived experience, learners gain a nuanced understanding of recovery, resilience, and wellbeing.

Module 01

Positive Mental Health and Psychiatry

This module introduces the foundations of positive mental health, stress, and recovery, drawing on insights from philosophy, psychology, and contemporary research. It explores how well-being is shaped not only by the absence of illness but by resilience, meaning, and connection. In this module, learners examine key concepts in positive psychiatry, understand the impact of stress on mental health, and explore recovery as a personal and ongoing process. Through real-life perspectives and evidence-based approaches, the module encourages reflection on how individuals can strengthen their own well-being while supporting others.

Duration : 3 hours

Videos : 8

Readings : 8

Assignments : 1

App Items : 1

Module 02

Body and Mind

This module explores the powerful connection between physical health and mental well-being, emphasising how lifestyle choices shape emotional and psychological resilience. Learners examine how exercise functions as an evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions, alongside the roles of sleep, nutrition, relaxation, and mindfulness in sustaining wellbeing. The module also introduces personality strengths, encouraging self-awareness and individual capacities that support mental health and integrates body-based strategies with psychological insight.

Duration : 5 hours

Videos : 9

Readings : 9

Assignments : 1

App Items : 1

Module 03

Love and Work

This module examines the deeply human foundations of mental health through the interconnected themes of love, work, rest, and play. Drawing on psychological theory and lived experience, it examines how relationships and social connections shape wellbeing across the lifespan. Learners are introduced to the importance of belonging, contribution, and meaningful activity, alongside reflections on whether work supports or challenges mental health. The module also highlights the wisdom of Aboriginal perspectives on social and emotionalwellbeing, offering a holistic understanding grounded in community and culture.

Duration : 3 hours

Videos : 9

Readings : 7

Peer review : 1

Module 04

Mental Illness

In this module, we revisit the relationship between physical health and mental well-being, emphasising how daily lifestyle choices shape emotional balance and psychological resilience. Learners consider exercise as an evidence-based intervention for common mental health conditions, alongside the roles of sleep, nutrition, relaxation, and mindfulness in sustaining wellbeing. The module also introduces personality strengths, encouraging self-awareness and the recognition of individual capacities that support mental health.

Duration : 6 hours

Videos : 10

Readings : 11

Peer review : 1

App item : 1

Module 05

Paths to Recovery

In this module, we focus on the varied pathways that support mental health recovery, highlighting both structured interventions and personal, lived approaches to healing. Learners consider the importance of early intervention in shaping positive outcomes, alongside the philosophy of personal recovery, which emphasises hope, agency, and self-determination. The module highlights the role of consumer support networks and emerging innovations that complement clinical care. Creative practices such as music and art therapy are presented as valuable tools for expression and resilience. In contrast, spiritual and religious practices are discussed for their capacity to provide meaning and connection.

Duration : 2 hours

Videos : 10

Readings : 3

Assignment : 1

App item : 1

Course Overview

Platform : Coursera

Duration : 2 weeks

Difficulty : Beginner

Flexibility : Self-paced