Outline

Overview

This unit of study will cover the aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of the following common mental health problems: anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders amongst other conditions. This unit of study will focus particularly on medication management issues in people with these conditions and the pharmacist's role in managing these people. It will also focus on the role of the pharmacist within the broader mental health care system in Australia.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Pharmacy
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Timothy Chen, timothy.chen@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Case studies	Case Study - Clozapine induced myocarditis Written responses to specific questions - management of clozapine ADRs	20%	Mid-semester break Due date: 05 Oct 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 05 Oct 2025	Case study on clozapine over 8 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Essay on The Mental Health System & the Role of the Pharmacist Essay - written assessment on mental health care system in Australia	15%	Week 02 Due date: 17 Aug 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 17 Aug 2025	Written essay over 2 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Webinar case studies - schizophrenia Written responses to case studies - psychosis pharmacotherapy	10%	Week 04 Due date: 31 Aug 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 31 Aug 2025	Case study assessment over two weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Webinar case studies - bipolar disorder Written responses to case studies - Bipolar disorder pharmacotherapy	10%	Week 06 Due date: 14 Sep 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 14 Sep 2025	Case studies over two weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Webinar case studies - depression Written responses to case studies - depressive disorder pharmacotherapy	10%	Week 08 Due date: 28 Sep 2025 at 20:05 Closing date: 28 Sep 2025	Case studies over two weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Webinar case studies - anxiety disorders Written responses to case studies - anxiety disorders pharmacotherapy	10%	Week 10 Due date: 19 Oct 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 19 Oct 2025	Case studies over two weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Case studies	Case Study - Bipolar disorder Written responses to specific questions - bipolar disorder management	20%	Week 12 Due date: 02 Nov 2025 at 20:00 Closing date: 02 Nov 2025	Case study assignment over 12 weeks	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Webinar - participation in case discussions Participation mark - continuous over semester	5%	Week 12 Due date: 29 Oct 2025 at 22:00 Closing date: 29 Oct 2025	Webinars conducted in weeks 1,3,5,7,9,12	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = early feedback task ?

Assessment summary

Webinar participation: A participation mark for active participation in webinars over the course of the semester.
Webinar case studies (Four modules): Upload written responses to specific case study questions which will be marked
Case Study Assignments (Two assignments): Upload written responses to specific case study questions which will be marked
Essay Assignment: Upload essay which will be marked

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

AI allowed

You are permitted to use automated writing tools and generative artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate your learning and completion of this assignment.  Please adhere to the following guidelines:

Do not enter confidential, personal, copyrighted or otherwise sensitive information into any AI tool.

Do not rely on the accuracy of outputs. You remain responsible for your work. This means you must independently verify and edit AI-generated content to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and suitability of the output.

If you use these tools, you must be aware of their limitations, biases, and propensity for fabrication.

 Your final submitted work must be your own, original work. You must acknowledge any use of AI tools that have been used in the assessment, and any material that forms part of your submission, must be appropriately referenced. For guidance on how to reference and acknowledge the use of AI, please refer to the AI in Education Canvas site.

 You are advised to keep copies of the prompts you provided and AI outputs as evidence of your research and writing process. This allows you to produce an accurate acknowledgement of AI use when you submit your work. This can be requested by the unit coordinator if there is any uncertainty about the originality of your work.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to students who demonstrate the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the units material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the units material and can solve routine problems and/ or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory adequately referencing the original source of the work.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Ongoing	Self-directed independent study	Independent study (40 hr)
Week 01	Introduction and mental health care system	Tutorial (14 hr)
Week 03	Schizophrenia	Tutorial (14 hr)
Week 05	Bipolar disorder	Tutorial (14 hr)
Week 07	Depression	Tutorial (14 hr)
Week 09	Anxiety disorders	Tutorial (14 hr)
Week 12	ADHD	Tutorial (14 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: Students are required to attend at least 85% of webinars/tutorials even when they have approved Special Consideration for absence.

If you are unable to attend a webinar, you must contact the unit of study coordinator as soon as possible prior to or after the webinar.

Students should be punctual and notify the unit of study coordinator if they will attend more than 15 minutes after the commencement of the webinar.

For more information see:

https://www.sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine_health_PG/coursework_pz/pharmacy_practice.shtml

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the Library Reading List, available on Canvas.

eTG Psychotropic Guidelines (available from library – subject guides – medicine and health sciences – pharmacy)
Taylor, D et al The Maudsley prescribing guidelines in psychiatry (current edtn) Wiley-Blackwell (e-copy available from library)

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Describe the role of pharmacists in the broader mental health care system in Australia
LO2. Explain the properties of psychotropic medicines (pharmacokinetic data, mechanism of action, indications for use, precautions and contraindications, drug-drug interactions etc) used in the management of specific mental health conditions
LO3. List key consumer counselling points in relation to the use of psychotropic medicines for specific mental health conditions
LO4. Understand the basic pathophysiology for and major neurotransmitters involved in specific mental health conditions
LO5. Critique selected primary literature pertaining to the use of psychotropic medicines for the management of specific mental health conditions
LO6. Apply data from specialised mental health resources to advise on patient care
LO7. Evaluate the medication regimens for consumers with specific mental health conditions (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders etc) for the appropriate use of evidence-based pharmacotherapy
LO8. Document and justify specific recommendations for the pharmacotherapeutic management of specific mental health conditions based on patient specific parameters

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 1. Domain 1 Professionalism in practice
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise
	Performance Outcomes Framework - Australian Pharmacy Council - At the point of general registration as a pharmacist - 3. Domain 3 Professional expertise

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The due dates for the four webinars and three assigntiminments have now been evenly spaced over the semester; The duration of the webinars has been increased to 150 minutes to allow for detailed discussion. The timing of the webinars has changed to improve facilitated access to material prior to submission of case studies.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHAR7122: Mental Health

Semester 2, 2025 [Online] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links