Introduction

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that affects motor function, communication, and daily living activities. Individuals with cerebral palsy are also at an increased risk of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, fear and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, while the physical aspects of cerebral palsy are widely recognised, its impact on mental health can go unnoticed. Untreated mental health issues can affect quality of life, participation in social activities and academic or work performance. There is, therefore, a need for increased awareness and improved access to mental health services for individuals with cerebral palsy. Evidence-based treatments for mental health issues in individuals with cerebral palsy include medication, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. As will be highlighted in this course, a multidisciplinary approach to treatment is essential, and many members of the rehabilitation team can play a role in recognising and addressing mental health issues.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• identify five factors that can lead to mental health challenges in individuals with cerebral palsy and their caregivers
• explain how identified mental health risk factors in individuals with cerebral palsy may affect occupational participation and daily functioning
• recognise key signs and symptoms of mental health problems in individuals with cerebral palsy
• define the role of at least four members of the rehabilitation team in helping to address mental health issues in individuals with cerebral palsy

Target audience

This course is aimed at rehabilitation professionals, students and assistants including but not limited to Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Rehabilitation Doctors, Rehabilitation Nurses, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Psychologists, Audiologists, Dietetics, Social Workers. Community Health Workers, Nurses or Medical Doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1.5-2 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.6 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

Pradeep Gunarathne: No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.