Certificate in Drug Awareness

Student Profile
This programme is designed for anyone wishing to gain a better understanding of drugs in society and their use and misuse.  The course is particularly suitable for people who may encounter drug related  problems and wish to learn how to respond.

Study Method
The course is designed for study by distance learning at work or at home.  Students receive course manual, assignments and studyguide plus tutor support by telephone, mail and email.

Assessment
The ASET certificate, which is a  recognised award, is gained through completing a short series of written assignments plus a multi-choice style end-test.

Course Outline
The course comprises four study modules:

Introduction to drug use and misuse: History of drug use, drug terms, differences between depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens and tranquillisers. Potential effects that drugs have on individuals, understanding of the law in relation to drugs, effects of drugs in the work place, statistics relating to drug use.

Dealing with other substances: Compare the differences between different types of volatile substances; understand the potential effects that volatile substances can have on individuals.

Levels of drug use, risks, and harm reduction:  Understand the different levels of drug dependency, stages of changing behaviour and methods of harm reduction, including experimental, recreation, dependency, the cycle of change, harm reduction.

Types of treatment interventions available: Understand what types of treatment interventions are available; identify national contacts which provide advice and information.