
How to Manage Mental Health Emergencies
Short course
8 hrs
Online
8 CPD points
(70% average required)
Course Overview
Mental health emergencies, like any emergency, requires instant recognition, swift reaction and appropriate management to avert potentially fatal outcomes. This is especially true in a primary care setting where the healthcare worker is often the first contact to encounter psychiatric emergencies. It is thus essential that all healthcare providers have the knowledge and skills to manage a potentially violent and aggressive patient, to appraise patients with suicidal intentions and to manage all psychiatric emergencies related to catatonia. It is crucial that healthcare workers recognise drug adverse effects of psychiatric medication and be able to implement corrective action.
This short course will improve the awareness, contribute to improved skills and competencies of those who care for and treat mentally ill patients and hence contribute to better outcomes and quality of care of these most vulnerable persons in our society. You will need approximately 8 hours to complete this course. Assessment includes modular quizzes, leading to a completion certificate from FPD.
Who Is This Course For?
Required Qualification
Course Level
Develop Your Professional Skills
Why choose this course?
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers all key concepts and skills, ensuring a deep and thorough understanding of how to manage mental health emergencies.
- Expert Developers: Learn from industry leaders and academic experts with years of real-world experience and insight.
- Flexible Learning Options: Our online courses provide the flexibility and convenience of learning in your own time, from the comfort of your home or office.

About the Academic Institution
Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) is a South African Private Institution of Higher Education established in October 1997 by the South African Medical Association and has been registered with the DHET since 2002.
580 000+
Students
27
Years
110
countries
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Course Lessons

Course developer
I am currently serving as a full-time Consultant Psychiatrist at Nua Healthcare Services in Naas, Co Kildare, Ireland, and as a part-time Consultant Psychiatrist for the Global team at Swiss Re. My relocation to Ireland in January 2024 marks a transition from my career in South Africa, where I practiced as a Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. My career has been dedicated to advancing the field of psychiatry, particularly in the context of workplace mental health and the prevention of disability due to mental illnesses. My approach to mental health care is deeply rooted in my belief in the importance of education and awareness. I advocate for the empowerment of individuals—both employees and managers—with the knowledge needed to foster a supportive and understanding workplace environment. Mental health awareness is an everyday imperative, not just a topic for occasional focus. I have contributed more than 30 publications peer reviewed journals. My academic background includes a degree in Medicine, a Diploma in Occupational Health, an MMed in Psychiatry (cum laude), an FC Psych from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, and a Doctorate in Medicine. My work now extends to the global stage in my role with Swiss Re, where I hope to contribute to shaping mental health strategies and improve understanding of how and why common mental health disorders can lead to disability and how that can be prevented.
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