Course Description:
The Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry is an advanced postgraduate program aimed at equipping healthcare professionals with the expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals struggling with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. Addiction psychiatry is a subspecialty of psychiatry that addresses the complex interplay of psychological, biological, and social factors influencing addiction. This fellowship combines clinical training, evidence-based practices, and research opportunities to prepare participants for comprehensive care delivery in various settings.

Course Objectives
The Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry is designed to:

• Provide a comprehensive understanding of the neurobiology, psychology, and sociocultural factors influencing addiction.

• Train fellows in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) and co-occurring mental health conditions.

• Develop expertise in pharmacological therapies and psychotherapeutic approaches tailored to addiction care.

• Equip participants with advanced skills for managing withdrawal, preventing relapse, and supporting long-term recovery.

• Foster innovation and research in addiction psychiatry to address evolving challenges in the field.

• This fellowship is an invaluable program for healthcare professionals committed to tackling the complexities of addiction. Through an integration of rigorous training, clinical practice, and research, the program empowers participants to make a profound impact on individuals and communities affected by addiction.

Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the fellowship can pursue careers as:

• Addiction Psychiatrists: Working in hospitals, addiction clinics, or private practice.

• Clinical Researchers: Advancing treatments and understanding of addiction.

• Public Health Advocates: Developing and implementing addiction prevention programs.

• Educators: Teaching addiction psychiatry to medical students and professionals.

• Policy Advisors: Contributing to national and international addiction policies.

Course Modules :

1. Introduction to Addiction Psychiatry

2. Neurobiology of Addiction

3. Assessment and Diagnosis

4. Pharmacological Management of Addiction

5. Psychotherapeutic Interventions

6. Dual Diagnosis and Co-occurring Disorders

7. Addiction in Special Populations

8. Behavioral Addictions

9. Relapse Prevention and Recovery

10. Public Health and Policy

11. Research in Addiction Psychiatry

Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the Fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry, participants will:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of addiction.

• Accurately assess and diagnose various substance use and behavioral disorders.

• Provide evidence-based pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments for addiction.

• Effectively manage withdrawal, relapse, and co-occurring mental health conditions.

• Advocate for patients and contribute to community-based addiction prevention and education initiatives.

• Lead research and innovation to advance the field of addiction psychiatry.

Assessment Criteria:
Evaluation is primarily based on assignments; however, to pass, learners must fulfill all learning outcomes for each unit. Upon completing each unit, an interview will be conducted to verify the authenticity of the learner's work.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates typically require:

• A medical degree (MBBS) or equivalent qualification.

• Completion of a residency in psychiatry or related fields is preferred.

• Valid medical licensure to practice.

• A demonstrated interest in specializing in addiction psychiatry.

Course Duration:

The recommended duration for this qualification is 1 year.
Note: The duration may be extended if additional learning support is required.