Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - HSCI 485 D100

Senior Seminar in Mental Health and Addictions (3)

Class Number: 1738

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 8, 2025: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    90 units, including at least 15 upper division HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-. Other prerequisites may vary according to topic.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Treatment of current issues in mental health and addictions from a population and public health perspective. Students will examine several topics from theoretical, methodological and policy perspectives.

COURSE DETAILS:

Substance use disorders and related harms continue to be a public health problem in Canada. Although the etiology of substance use disorders continues to be debated, a biopsychosocial approach has been proposed and is inclusive of several perspectives on and theories of addiction. In this course, after first reviewing basic terminology, diagnostic criteria, the epidemiology of substance use and recovery in Canada, and major theories of addiction, a biopsychosocial approach to substance use disorders will be examined within a recovery-oriented system of care framework. Other related topics will include the history of drug policy and treatment in Canada; alternative policy models to the criminalization of substance use; harm reduction strategies and interventions; Indigenous perspectives on substance use disorders; contributing factors and potential solutions to the North American drug poisoning crisis; recovery-oriented treatment interventions; and the prevention of substance use disorders. Students will have opportunities to critically evaluate local and national substance use policies and services. Although relevant approaches in international jurisdictions will be explored, there will be a major emphasis on BC and Canada as a whole.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • Explain key course terms, concepts, and theories/models (e.g., substance use disorder, recovery, and the biopsychosocial model)
  • Critically evaluate research methods used to measure substance use and examine recovery-related outcomes
  • Describe Indigenous perspectives on the causes of and treatments for substance use disorders
  • Explain a recovery-oriented system of care
  • Explain evidence-based, recovery-oriented substance use treatments and harm reduction interventions
  • Critically evaluate current programs and policies in BC and Canada addressing substance use disorders
  • Recommend policies based on a literature review of a topic of your choice related to substance use disorders
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills through a facilitated discussion and group work

Grading

  • Participation 20%
  • Reflections 10%
  • In-class learning exercises 10%
  • Faciliated discussion 25%
  • Group project 35%

NOTES:

This course will be delivered once per week (approximately 3 hours) in the form of an interactive seminar. Accordingly, preparation and participation will be essential to success. In-class activities/discussions will be a central focus of each class. Students will be expected to share their written work with their peers. Students will also take on leadership roles in course delivery.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be available online via the SFU Library.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.