Despite the reality that mental health and substance use challenges are prevalent within society, stigma continues to make it difficult to address, cope with, and provide effective treatment. Navigating through the justice system with mental health and/or substance use challenges makes for further complications, given the level of stereotyping and prejudice additionally associated with justice-involved individuals. Learn about the biological and psychosocial foundation of mental health and substance use, and the misconceptions that impact criminalization. Explore signs, symptoms, and behavioural characteristics of common mental health and substance use. Examine how to develop an equitable and inclusive approach to broadening their perspectives. Learn about the importance of developing strong skills within this field and learning about personal self-care when providing support to those with mental health and substance use issues.
Please note: This course is offered through OntarioLearn. To review important information such as textbook, exam and grade information, visit OntarioLearn.
Have you taken this course or an equivalent course? Contact the Credit Transfer Office.
Not all courses are offered each term.
Winter 2026 registration is now open.In person: classes held in person on a campus/site in a classroom/lab/shop/studio for the course duration
Online - Asynchronous: 100% online delivery, no scheduled day or time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates
Online - Synchronous: 100% online delivery, scheduled day and time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates
Hybrid: any combination of in person, timetabled, on campus, online, and hyflex delivery