Free Level 3 Mental Health Course Online – East Durham College

CostFREE
Duration5 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryOnline
StartFlexible
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Understanding Mental Health Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your life and commitments. The course is free for adults aged 19 or over who do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification.

You'll explore how mental health conditions develop, how they affect people's lives, and how support services work. Topics include common mental health conditions, recovery approaches, and the role of a support worker. The course takes around 5 months to complete.

You'll finish with an NCFE Certificate in Understanding Mental Health.

Who this course is for

This course is for anyone with an interest in the subject. Distance learning courses are suitable for people who like to learn independently. They are able to set their own pace of study and choose where and when they want to study.

Entry requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Aged 19+ (born before 01/09/2001)
  • Not hold a full level 3 qualification, your highest qualification will be a level 2
  • Lived in the UK continuously for 3 years
  • Not currently completing a distance learning course with us, or any other training provider
  • Not live in an area of the UK with a devolved government (this will be checked by our team upon application)

What you will learn

  • You'll understand what mental health is and how it affects wellbeing.
  • You'll explore common mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
  • You'll learn how mental health conditions are diagnosed and treated.
  • You'll understand the principles of recovery and person-centred support.
  • You'll explore the role of mental health support workers and other professionals.
  • You'll understand how legislation and policy shape mental health services.
  • You'll learn how to promote positive mental health and reduce stigma.

How you will learn

You study entirely online, working through written materials and activities at your own pace. Assessment is by written assignments submitted online. There are no exams. East Durham College will guide you through the process and confirm submission deadlines when you enrol.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. East Durham College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Mental health support worker, supports people living with mental health conditions in community or residential settings.
  • Support worker, assists individuals with a range of needs in care or community roles.
  • Healthcare assistant, works alongside clinical staff in NHS or private healthcare settings.
  • Recovery worker, helps people manage their mental health and rebuild independence.
  • Wellbeing coordinator, promotes mental health and wellbeing in workplace or community settings.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, a larger qualification that opens doors to more senior support roles.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Mental Health, for those wanting to deepen their knowledge and move into more specialist work.
  • Counselling qualifications at Level 3 or Level 4, for those interested in a therapeutic career path.

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