ME550: Behavioral Health

This course introduces students to foundational concepts in behavioral health relevant to clinical practice. Students will explore the distinctions between normal physical, social, and psychosocial processes and those altered by illness or injury. The course provides an overview of neurobiological and genetic factors influencing mental illness and equips students with the tools to assess a patient's mental health and developmental status. Emphasis is placed on understanding the classification of mental disorders as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Students will also learn to recognize when to make appropriate and timely referrals and appreciate the collaborative roles of various healthcare professionals in managing mental health conditions. Additionally, the course highlights the role of family and community dynamics in patient care and promotes self-awareness regarding the clinician’s own mental health, exploring how personal well-being intersects with professionalism, cultural competence, and the clinician-patient relationship.