Mental health is a complex topic that merits multiangled and holistic study. In this course, we will explore the intricate workings of the mammalian brain in generating (mal)adaptive behaviours in a multidiscplinary manner: from the cognitive down to the circuit and molecular level. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding disorder symptomatology, biological and psychological causes, current research methodology, and therapeutic interventions for each of the listed disorder clusters. The content is derived from the cornerstone and pioneering top-notch studies of the 21st century and is supported by examples from daily life. Although focused on neuropsychiatry, we will learn about a variety of common state-of-the-art neuroscience techniques. These include, but are not limited to: behavioural animal modeling, circuit tracing, electrophysiology, fMRI, EEG, and transcriptomics. Along the way, we will gain necessary knowledge for interpreting variety of data representations and evaluating conclusions of neuroscientific studies. Finally, we will discuss various forms of treatment. Tentative schedule, open to change as per desire of the participants, is as follows:

Class 1: Brief History of Psychiatry and Its Failures
Class 2: Depressive and Mood Disorders
Class 3: Anxiety Disorders
Class 4: Psychosis and Schizophrenia
Class 5: Eating Disorders
Class 6: Addiction

The overall aim of the course is to introduce the participants to the complexity of issues surrounding mental disorders and foster an attitude of care and practical understanding centered on science. The course is especially beneficial for those interested in abnormal psychology, neuroscience, brain-mind relationship and multidisciplinary biological research.

Requirements: enthusiasm; basics of high school biology and psychology
Disclaimer #1: This is not a ‚do it yourself self-help‘ course.
Disclaimer #2: The course topics are difficult and intimate. Although every care is taken to avoid that, it is worth emphasizing that the content itself can be discomforting.