Glossary Of Mental Health Terms And Terminology
Less jargon, more ‘ohhh, that makes sense!
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Abreaction
A psychological process where repressed emotions tied to a past conflict or trauma are released, often by recalling the painful experience. Originally introduced by Breuer in early psychoanalysis, the term is now used more generally in mental health contexts.
Abreaction
A psychological process where repressed emotions tied to a past conflict or trauma are released, often by recalling the painful experience. Originally introduced by Breuer in early psychoanalysis, the term is now used more generally in mental health contexts.
Abreaction
A psychological process where repressed emotions tied to a past conflict or trauma are released, often by recalling the painful experience. Originally introduced by Breuer in early psychoanalysis, the term is now used more generally in mental health contexts.
Abuse
1. Excessive or improper use of substances, e.g. alcohol or other drugs, which may result in damage to health or increased risk of such damage. 2. Mistreatment; harming or injuring another.
Abuse
1. Excessive or improper use of substances, e.g. alcohol or other drugs, which may result in damage to health or increased risk of such damage. 2. Mistreatment; harming or injuring another.
Abuse
1. Excessive or improper use of substances, e.g. alcohol or other drugs, which may result in damage to health or increased risk of such damage. 2. Mistreatment; harming or injuring another.
Acculturation difficulty
Slowness or inadequacy in adapting to the demands of a new environment with which the individual could reasonably be expected to cope.
Acculturation difficulty
Slowness or inadequacy in adapting to the demands of a new environment with which the individual could reasonably be expected to cope.
Acculturation difficulty
Slowness or inadequacy in adapting to the demands of a new environment with which the individual could reasonably be expected to cope.
Addiction, drug
See dependence syndrome.
Addiction, drug
See dependence syndrome.
Addiction, drug
See dependence syndrome.
Agoraphobia
A marked fear of situations like leaving home, being in crowds, or traveling alone — where escape might feel difficult. Panic attacks are common. People often avoid these situations, sometimes feeling less anxious as a result. First described by Westphal in 1872 as fear of open spaces.
Agoraphobia
A marked fear of situations like leaving home, being in crowds, or traveling alone — where escape might feel difficult. Panic attacks are common. People often avoid these situations, sometimes feeling less anxious as a result. First described by Westphal in 1872 as fear of open spaces.
Agoraphobia
A marked fear of situations like leaving home, being in crowds, or traveling alone — where escape might feel difficult. Panic attacks are common. People often avoid these situations, sometimes feeling less anxious as a result. First described by Westphal in 1872 as fear of open spaces.
Anorexia Nervosa
A disorder marked by deliberate weight loss, often driven by a distorted body image and intense fear of gaining weight. It involves extreme restriction of food, sometimes with excessive exercise, and can lead to severe physical and psychological complications. Despite being underweight, individuals often perceive themselves as overweight.
Anorexia Nervosa
A disorder marked by deliberate weight loss, often driven by a distorted body image and intense fear of gaining weight. It involves extreme restriction of food, sometimes with excessive exercise, and can lead to severe physical and psychological complications. Despite being underweight, individuals often perceive themselves as overweight.
Anorexia Nervosa
A disorder marked by deliberate weight loss, often driven by a distorted body image and intense fear of gaining weight. It involves extreme restriction of food, sometimes with excessive exercise, and can lead to severe physical and psychological complications. Despite being underweight, individuals often perceive themselves as overweight.
Attention-seeking Behaviour
Actions driven by a strong need for attention, often seen in childhood or certain personality disorders. The behaviour may be inappropriate or disruptive in some settings.
Attention-seeking Behaviour
Actions driven by a strong need for attention, often seen in childhood or certain personality disorders. The behaviour may be inappropriate or disruptive in some settings.
Attention-seeking Behaviour
Actions driven by a strong need for attention, often seen in childhood or certain personality disorders. The behaviour may be inappropriate or disruptive in some settings.
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Biological clock
Physiological mechanism that controls periodic changes or rhythms in various physical and behavioural functions, e.g. body temperature or blood pressure.
Biological clock
Physiological mechanism that controls periodic changes or rhythms in various physical and behavioural functions, e.g. body temperature or blood pressure.
Biological clock
Physiological mechanism that controls periodic changes or rhythms in various physical and behavioural functions, e.g. body temperature or blood pressure.
Bipolar Disorder
A psychiatric condition involving cycles of manic/hypomanic episodes (elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity) and depressive episodes (low mood, fatigue, anhedonia). It is not the same as being “moody” or having emotional ups and downs. There are subtypes like Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and cyclothymia, each with specific criteria.
Bipolar Disorder
A psychiatric condition involving cycles of manic/hypomanic episodes (elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity) and depressive episodes (low mood, fatigue, anhedonia). It is not the same as being “moody” or having emotional ups and downs. There are subtypes like Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and cyclothymia, each with specific criteria.
Bipolar Disorder
A psychiatric condition involving cycles of manic/hypomanic episodes (elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity) and depressive episodes (low mood, fatigue, anhedonia). It is not the same as being “moody” or having emotional ups and downs. There are subtypes like Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and cyclothymia, each with specific criteria.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
A mental health condition where a person is preoccupied with one or more perceived flaws in their physical appearance — flaws that are either minor or not observable to others. This distress leads to repetitive behaviors like mirror checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance, and it causes significant emotional or social impairment.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
A mental health condition where a person is preoccupied with one or more perceived flaws in their physical appearance — flaws that are either minor or not observable to others. This distress leads to repetitive behaviors like mirror checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance, and it causes significant emotional or social impairment.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
A mental health condition where a person is preoccupied with one or more perceived flaws in their physical appearance — flaws that are either minor or not observable to others. This distress leads to repetitive behaviors like mirror checking, excessive grooming, or seeking reassurance, and it causes significant emotional or social impairment.
Borderline personality disorder
See personality disorder, emotionally unstable.
Borderline personality disorder
See personality disorder, emotionally unstable.
Borderline personality disorder
See personality disorder, emotionally unstable.
Brain neoplasm
A tumour that either starts in the brain or spreads there from another part of the body (metastasis). These tumours often cause mental symptoms like confusion, memory decline, mood changes, hallucinations, or psychosis — sometimes before physical signs like seizures or neurological symptoms appear. Other effects may include increased pressure in the brain and focal neurological deficits.
Brain neoplasm
A tumour that either starts in the brain or spreads there from another part of the body (metastasis). These tumours often cause mental symptoms like confusion, memory decline, mood changes, hallucinations, or psychosis — sometimes before physical signs like seizures or neurological symptoms appear. Other effects may include increased pressure in the brain and focal neurological deficits.
Brain neoplasm
A tumour that either starts in the brain or spreads there from another part of the body (metastasis). These tumours often cause mental symptoms like confusion, memory decline, mood changes, hallucinations, or psychosis — sometimes before physical signs like seizures or neurological symptoms appear. Other effects may include increased pressure in the brain and focal neurological deficits.
Bulimia nervosa
A condition marked by repeated episodes of overeating (bingeing) followed by behaviours to avoid weight gain, like vomiting or using laxatives. There's often an intense focus on body weight and shape. It can lead to serious physical issues, including electrolyte imbalances. In some cases, it may follow an earlier episode of anorexia nervosa.
Bulimia nervosa
A condition marked by repeated episodes of overeating (bingeing) followed by behaviours to avoid weight gain, like vomiting or using laxatives. There's often an intense focus on body weight and shape. It can lead to serious physical issues, including electrolyte imbalances. In some cases, it may follow an earlier episode of anorexia nervosa.
Bulimia nervosa
A condition marked by repeated episodes of overeating (bingeing) followed by behaviours to avoid weight gain, like vomiting or using laxatives. There's often an intense focus on body weight and shape. It can lead to serious physical issues, including electrolyte imbalances. In some cases, it may follow an earlier episode of anorexia nervosa.
Burn Out
A state of physical or emotional exhaustion caused by unrelenting work-related stress and performance demands. It is marked by fatigue, poor work performance, insomnia, low mood, and sometimes substance use or suicide. Some authorities consider most cases of burn-out to be forms of clinical depression.
Burn Out
A state of physical or emotional exhaustion caused by unrelenting work-related stress and performance demands. It is marked by fatigue, poor work performance, insomnia, low mood, and sometimes substance use or suicide. Some authorities consider most cases of burn-out to be forms of clinical depression.
Burn Out
A state of physical or emotional exhaustion caused by unrelenting work-related stress and performance demands. It is marked by fatigue, poor work performance, insomnia, low mood, and sometimes substance use or suicide. Some authorities consider most cases of burn-out to be forms of clinical depression.
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Caffeine use disorder
Overuse of caffeine — typically 250 mg or more per day — can lead to symptoms like restlessness, insomnia, muscle twitching, fast heartbeat, digestive issues, and rapid or rambling speech. It may also worsen anxiety, panic, depression, or schizophrenia.
Caffeine use disorder
Overuse of caffeine — typically 250 mg or more per day — can lead to symptoms like restlessness, insomnia, muscle twitching, fast heartbeat, digestive issues, and rapid or rambling speech. It may also worsen anxiety, panic, depression, or schizophrenia.
Caffeine use disorder
Overuse of caffeine — typically 250 mg or more per day — can lead to symptoms like restlessness, insomnia, muscle twitching, fast heartbeat, digestive issues, and rapid or rambling speech. It may also worsen anxiety, panic, depression, or schizophrenia.
Caregiver Stress
Emotional, physical, and mental strain experienced by individuals who care for someone with chronic illness, disability, or age-related conditions. It can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and health problems in the caregiver themselves. It’s more likely if the caregiver lacks support, has little control, or feels unprepared.
Caregiver Stress
Emotional, physical, and mental strain experienced by individuals who care for someone with chronic illness, disability, or age-related conditions. It can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and health problems in the caregiver themselves. It’s more likely if the caregiver lacks support, has little control, or feels unprepared.
Caregiver Stress
Emotional, physical, and mental strain experienced by individuals who care for someone with chronic illness, disability, or age-related conditions. It can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and health problems in the caregiver themselves. It’s more likely if the caregiver lacks support, has little control, or feels unprepared.
Catastrophic reaction
A response to exceptionally severe physical or mental stress, marked by intense anxiety, shock, and a breakdown of coping behaviour. The term also refers to the agitation and helplessness seen in individuals with brain damage when faced with tasks beyond their ability (Goldstein, 1878–1965).
Catastrophic reaction
A response to exceptionally severe physical or mental stress, marked by intense anxiety, shock, and a breakdown of coping behaviour. The term also refers to the agitation and helplessness seen in individuals with brain damage when faced with tasks beyond their ability (Goldstein, 1878–1965).
Catastrophic reaction
A response to exceptionally severe physical or mental stress, marked by intense anxiety, shock, and a breakdown of coping behaviour. The term also refers to the agitation and helplessness seen in individuals with brain damage when faced with tasks beyond their ability (Goldstein, 1878–1965).
Child abuse
Maltreatment of a child through neglect or intentional harm. It often involves more than one form. Neglect is the failure to provide adequate care or supervision. Physical abuse may include violence, poisoning, or other non-accidental injuries. Sexual abuse usually involves genital contact and may range from fondling to forcible rape with physical injury; child pornography and forced prostitution are included. Psychological abuse is the deliberate and repeated infliction of fear, rejection, humiliation, or loneliness.
Child abuse
Maltreatment of a child through neglect or intentional harm. It often involves more than one form. Neglect is the failure to provide adequate care or supervision. Physical abuse may include violence, poisoning, or other non-accidental injuries. Sexual abuse usually involves genital contact and may range from fondling to forcible rape with physical injury; child pornography and forced prostitution are included. Psychological abuse is the deliberate and repeated infliction of fear, rejection, humiliation, or loneliness.
Child abuse
Maltreatment of a child through neglect or intentional harm. It often involves more than one form. Neglect is the failure to provide adequate care or supervision. Physical abuse may include violence, poisoning, or other non-accidental injuries. Sexual abuse usually involves genital contact and may range from fondling to forcible rape with physical injury; child pornography and forced prostitution are included. Psychological abuse is the deliberate and repeated infliction of fear, rejection, humiliation, or loneliness.
Chronic Intractable Pain
Persistent or frequently recurring pain that is not fully explained by physical damage and does not improve with standard treatments. It often causes significant distress and functional impairment. The most common form is chronic lower back pain.
Chronic Intractable Pain
Persistent or frequently recurring pain that is not fully explained by physical damage and does not improve with standard treatments. It often causes significant distress and functional impairment. The most common form is chronic lower back pain.
Chronic Intractable Pain
Persistent or frequently recurring pain that is not fully explained by physical damage and does not improve with standard treatments. It often causes significant distress and functional impairment. The most common form is chronic lower back pain.
Claustrophobia
Morbid fear of being in enclosed places that limit the freedom of instantaneous exit.
Claustrophobia
Morbid fear of being in enclosed places that limit the freedom of instantaneous exit.
Claustrophobia
Morbid fear of being in enclosed places that limit the freedom of instantaneous exit.
Compulsive Acts
Repetitive behaviours like excessive hand-washing, checking, or arranging, done in response to fear — often of causing or being exposed to danger. The act is usually symbolic or ineffective in preventing the feared outcome. While compulsive acts are a core feature of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), they can also occur in other conditions or without meeting the full criteria for OCD.
Compulsive Acts
Repetitive behaviours like excessive hand-washing, checking, or arranging, done in response to fear — often of causing or being exposed to danger. The act is usually symbolic or ineffective in preventing the feared outcome. While compulsive acts are a core feature of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), they can also occur in other conditions or without meeting the full criteria for OCD.
Compulsive Acts
Repetitive behaviours like excessive hand-washing, checking, or arranging, done in response to fear — often of causing or being exposed to danger. The act is usually symbolic or ineffective in preventing the feared outcome. While compulsive acts are a core feature of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), they can also occur in other conditions or without meeting the full criteria for OCD.
Cognition
The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding — including perception, judgement, imagination, and conceptual thinking. Cognition is traditionally distinguished from emotion and conation (mental drive or motivation).
Cognition
The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding — including perception, judgement, imagination, and conceptual thinking. Cognition is traditionally distinguished from emotion and conation (mental drive or motivation).
Cognition
The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding — including perception, judgement, imagination, and conceptual thinking. Cognition is traditionally distinguished from emotion and conation (mental drive or motivation).
Coping Mechanisms
The psychological and behavioural strategies a person uses to manage stress, adapt to challenges, or reduce emotional distress. Coping mechanisms may be helpful (adaptive) or unhelpful (maladaptive), depending on their effect over time.
Coping Mechanisms
The psychological and behavioural strategies a person uses to manage stress, adapt to challenges, or reduce emotional distress. Coping mechanisms may be helpful (adaptive) or unhelpful (maladaptive), depending on their effect over time.
Coping Mechanisms
The psychological and behavioural strategies a person uses to manage stress, adapt to challenges, or reduce emotional distress. Coping mechanisms may be helpful (adaptive) or unhelpful (maladaptive), depending on their effect over time.
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Defect
A lasting and irreversible deterioration in a psychological function, mental capacity, or personality. Defects may be innate or acquired. In schizophrenia, a persistent change in personality — such as emotional blunting or withdrawal — was seen by Kraepelin and Bleuler as a defining outcome, in contrast to mood disorders like manic-depressive illness.
Defect
A lasting and irreversible deterioration in a psychological function, mental capacity, or personality. Defects may be innate or acquired. In schizophrenia, a persistent change in personality — such as emotional blunting or withdrawal — was seen by Kraepelin and Bleuler as a defining outcome, in contrast to mood disorders like manic-depressive illness.
Defect
A lasting and irreversible deterioration in a psychological function, mental capacity, or personality. Defects may be innate or acquired. In schizophrenia, a persistent change in personality — such as emotional blunting or withdrawal — was seen by Kraepelin and Bleuler as a defining outcome, in contrast to mood disorders like manic-depressive illness.
Delusion
A false and unshakable belief that is out of touch with reality and not consistent with the person’s cultural background. Primary delusions are irrational and not explainable by the person’s life or personality. Secondary delusions arise from disturbed mental states, such as mood disorders or suspicion. Birnbaum (1908) and Jaspers (1913) distinguished true delusions from delusion-like ideas — mistaken beliefs held with abnormal conviction, but still psychologically understandable.
Delusion
A false and unshakable belief that is out of touch with reality and not consistent with the person’s cultural background. Primary delusions are irrational and not explainable by the person’s life or personality. Secondary delusions arise from disturbed mental states, such as mood disorders or suspicion. Birnbaum (1908) and Jaspers (1913) distinguished true delusions from delusion-like ideas — mistaken beliefs held with abnormal conviction, but still psychologically understandable.
Delusion
A false and unshakable belief that is out of touch with reality and not consistent with the person’s cultural background. Primary delusions are irrational and not explainable by the person’s life or personality. Secondary delusions arise from disturbed mental states, such as mood disorders or suspicion. Birnbaum (1908) and Jaspers (1913) distinguished true delusions from delusion-like ideas — mistaken beliefs held with abnormal conviction, but still psychologically understandable.
Dementia
A syndrome caused by brain disease, usually chronic or progressive, marked by impaired memory, thinking, orientation, learning, language, and judgement — with clear consciousness. Emotional control, social behaviour, or motivation often also decline, and may sometimes be affected before cognition.
Dementia
A syndrome caused by brain disease, usually chronic or progressive, marked by impaired memory, thinking, orientation, learning, language, and judgement — with clear consciousness. Emotional control, social behaviour, or motivation often also decline, and may sometimes be affected before cognition.
Dementia
A syndrome caused by brain disease, usually chronic or progressive, marked by impaired memory, thinking, orientation, learning, language, and judgement — with clear consciousness. Emotional control, social behaviour, or motivation often also decline, and may sometimes be affected before cognition.
Dependence Syndrome
A cluster of behavioural, mental, and physical symptoms from repeated substance use. It involves strong craving, difficulty controlling use, continued use despite harm, neglect of other activities, increased tolerance, and sometimes withdrawal. It may develop with one substance, a class of substances, or several.
Dependence Syndrome
A cluster of behavioural, mental, and physical symptoms from repeated substance use. It involves strong craving, difficulty controlling use, continued use despite harm, neglect of other activities, increased tolerance, and sometimes withdrawal. It may develop with one substance, a class of substances, or several.
Dependence Syndrome
A cluster of behavioural, mental, and physical symptoms from repeated substance use. It involves strong craving, difficulty controlling use, continued use despite harm, neglect of other activities, increased tolerance, and sometimes withdrawal. It may develop with one substance, a class of substances, or several.
Depression
A mental state marked by a sustained lowering of mood, often accompanied by anxiety, restlessness, slowed activity, suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbances, and various physical complaints. It may present as a symptom, part of a broader syndrome, or as a distinct clinical disorder. Depression affects emotional, cognitive, and bodily functions, and is frequently misunderstood or misused as a catch-all for low mood, despite being a specific medical condition.
Depression
A mental state marked by a sustained lowering of mood, often accompanied by anxiety, restlessness, slowed activity, suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbances, and various physical complaints. It may present as a symptom, part of a broader syndrome, or as a distinct clinical disorder. Depression affects emotional, cognitive, and bodily functions, and is frequently misunderstood or misused as a catch-all for low mood, despite being a specific medical condition.
Depression
A mental state marked by a sustained lowering of mood, often accompanied by anxiety, restlessness, slowed activity, suicidal thoughts, sleep disturbances, and various physical complaints. It may present as a symptom, part of a broader syndrome, or as a distinct clinical disorder. Depression affects emotional, cognitive, and bodily functions, and is frequently misunderstood or misused as a catch-all for low mood, despite being a specific medical condition.
Dissociation
A disconnection between thoughts, identity, memory, or perception. Can feel like being "outside your body," the world feeling unreal (derealization), or memory gaps. Occurs in trauma-related disorders, dissociative disorders, and sometimes with anxiety or fatigue. Persistent or severe dissociation may signal a dissociative disorder.
Dissociation
A disconnection between thoughts, identity, memory, or perception. Can feel like being "outside your body," the world feeling unreal (derealization), or memory gaps. Occurs in trauma-related disorders, dissociative disorders, and sometimes with anxiety or fatigue. Persistent or severe dissociation may signal a dissociative disorder.
Dissociation
A disconnection between thoughts, identity, memory, or perception. Can feel like being "outside your body," the world feeling unreal (derealization), or memory gaps. Occurs in trauma-related disorders, dissociative disorders, and sometimes with anxiety or fatigue. Persistent or severe dissociation may signal a dissociative disorder.
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
Formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder; A complex mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities that recurrently take control of an individual’s behavior. These states may have their own names, memories, and traits. DID often includes memory gaps and dissociative symptoms not explained by ordinary forgetfulness. It is usually associated with severe trauma, especially in early childhood.
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
Formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder; A complex mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities that recurrently take control of an individual’s behavior. These states may have their own names, memories, and traits. DID often includes memory gaps and dissociative symptoms not explained by ordinary forgetfulness. It is usually associated with severe trauma, especially in early childhood.
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
Formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder; A complex mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities that recurrently take control of an individual’s behavior. These states may have their own names, memories, and traits. DID often includes memory gaps and dissociative symptoms not explained by ordinary forgetfulness. It is usually associated with severe trauma, especially in early childhood.
Doomscrolling
Doomscrolling is the compulsive habit of continuously scrolling through content on phones or devices, often without a clear stopping point. While it originally referred to consuming negative news or distressing updates, it now includes prolonged scrolling through any content, including neutral or positive posts. It can function as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, or as a way to avoid tasks or emotional discomfort.
Doomscrolling
Doomscrolling is the compulsive habit of continuously scrolling through content on phones or devices, often without a clear stopping point. While it originally referred to consuming negative news or distressing updates, it now includes prolonged scrolling through any content, including neutral or positive posts. It can function as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, or as a way to avoid tasks or emotional discomfort.
Doomscrolling
Doomscrolling is the compulsive habit of continuously scrolling through content on phones or devices, often without a clear stopping point. While it originally referred to consuming negative news or distressing updates, it now includes prolonged scrolling through any content, including neutral or positive posts. It can function as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety, or as a way to avoid tasks or emotional discomfort.
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Eating Disorder
A category of disorders that includes anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, psychogenic overeating or vomiting, pica in adults, and psychogenic loss of appetite. These conditions often reflect deeper psychological disturbances and can present in overlapping ways.
Eating Disorder
A category of disorders that includes anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, psychogenic overeating or vomiting, pica in adults, and psychogenic loss of appetite. These conditions often reflect deeper psychological disturbances and can present in overlapping ways.
Eating Disorder
A category of disorders that includes anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, psychogenic overeating or vomiting, pica in adults, and psychogenic loss of appetite. These conditions often reflect deeper psychological disturbances and can present in overlapping ways.
Elation
A mood of intense happiness or exuberance. When unusually heightened and out of proportion to actual circumstances, it may signal mania or hypomania.
Elation
A mood of intense happiness or exuberance. When unusually heightened and out of proportion to actual circumstances, it may signal mania or hypomania.
Elation
A mood of intense happiness or exuberance. When unusually heightened and out of proportion to actual circumstances, it may signal mania or hypomania.
Electrolyte disturbance
Electrolyte disturbance refers to abnormal levels of ions like sodium, potassium, calcium, or bicarbonate in the blood, often due to an underlying illness. These imbalances can cause distinct symptoms: low sodium (hyponatraemia) may cause low blood pressure, weakness, dizziness, apathy, and coma in severe cases. Low potassium (hypokalaemia) may lead to lethargy, anxiety, depression, and muscle weakness. Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) can cause depression and cramps, while high calcium (hypercalcaemia) may trigger depression and, if prolonged, psychotic or dementia-like symptoms.
Electrolyte disturbance
Electrolyte disturbance refers to abnormal levels of ions like sodium, potassium, calcium, or bicarbonate in the blood, often due to an underlying illness. These imbalances can cause distinct symptoms: low sodium (hyponatraemia) may cause low blood pressure, weakness, dizziness, apathy, and coma in severe cases. Low potassium (hypokalaemia) may lead to lethargy, anxiety, depression, and muscle weakness. Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) can cause depression and cramps, while high calcium (hypercalcaemia) may trigger depression and, if prolonged, psychotic or dementia-like symptoms.
Electrolyte disturbance
Electrolyte disturbance refers to abnormal levels of ions like sodium, potassium, calcium, or bicarbonate in the blood, often due to an underlying illness. These imbalances can cause distinct symptoms: low sodium (hyponatraemia) may cause low blood pressure, weakness, dizziness, apathy, and coma in severe cases. Low potassium (hypokalaemia) may lead to lethargy, anxiety, depression, and muscle weakness. Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) can cause depression and cramps, while high calcium (hypercalcaemia) may trigger depression and, if prolonged, psychotic or dementia-like symptoms.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the presence of functioning uterine tissue outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, abdominal wall, or surgical scars. This tissue responds to hormonal cycles, causing cyclic bleeding that leads to painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and pelvic pain.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the presence of functioning uterine tissue outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, abdominal wall, or surgical scars. This tissue responds to hormonal cycles, causing cyclic bleeding that leads to painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and pelvic pain.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the presence of functioning uterine tissue outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, abdominal wall, or surgical scars. This tissue responds to hormonal cycles, causing cyclic bleeding that leads to painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and pelvic pain.
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Failure to Thrive
Failure to thrive is the lack of expected physiological development in a child, marked by slowed milestone achievement, poor weight gain, growth failure, and short stature. When no organic cause is found, it may be linked to reactive attachment disorder.
Failure to Thrive
Failure to thrive is the lack of expected physiological development in a child, marked by slowed milestone achievement, poor weight gain, growth failure, and short stature. When no organic cause is found, it may be linked to reactive attachment disorder.
Failure to Thrive
Failure to thrive is the lack of expected physiological development in a child, marked by slowed milestone achievement, poor weight gain, growth failure, and short stature. When no organic cause is found, it may be linked to reactive attachment disorder.
Feeding disorder of infancy and childhood
Persistent food refusal or extreme selectivity despite adequate food availability and competent caregiving, with no identifiable organic cause. It may sometimes involve rumination—repeated regurgitation not due to nausea or illness.
Feeding disorder of infancy and childhood
Persistent food refusal or extreme selectivity despite adequate food availability and competent caregiving, with no identifiable organic cause. It may sometimes involve rumination—repeated regurgitation not due to nausea or illness.
Feeding disorder of infancy and childhood
Persistent food refusal or extreme selectivity despite adequate food availability and competent caregiving, with no identifiable organic cause. It may sometimes involve rumination—repeated regurgitation not due to nausea or illness.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. It affects the baby’s physical growth, brain development, and facial features. Common signs include low birth weight, learning or attention difficulties, and distinctive facial traits like a smooth upper lip and small eye openings.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. It affects the baby’s physical growth, brain development, and facial features. Common signs include low birth weight, learning or attention difficulties, and distinctive facial traits like a smooth upper lip and small eye openings.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. It affects the baby’s physical growth, brain development, and facial features. Common signs include low birth weight, learning or attention difficulties, and distinctive facial traits like a smooth upper lip and small eye openings.
Flashbacks
Brief, spontaneous episodes where a person re-experiences perceptual distortions, emotions, or physical sensations from a previous hallucinogen trip—without taking the drug again. They may last seconds to hours and can be triggered by stress, fatigue, or substance use (like cannabis or alcohol). Flashbacks are known to occur in some hallucinogen users, including those with no history of mental illness.
Flashbacks
Brief, spontaneous episodes where a person re-experiences perceptual distortions, emotions, or physical sensations from a previous hallucinogen trip—without taking the drug again. They may last seconds to hours and can be triggered by stress, fatigue, or substance use (like cannabis or alcohol). Flashbacks are known to occur in some hallucinogen users, including those with no history of mental illness.
Flashbacks
Brief, spontaneous episodes where a person re-experiences perceptual distortions, emotions, or physical sensations from a previous hallucinogen trip—without taking the drug again. They may last seconds to hours and can be triggered by stress, fatigue, or substance use (like cannabis or alcohol). Flashbacks are known to occur in some hallucinogen users, including those with no history of mental illness.
Flight Reaction
An automatic stress response where the body prepares to flee from danger. It's part of the "fight-or-flight" response, triggered by the sympathetic nervous system and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. This leads to rapid heartbeat, increased alertness, and muscle readiness.
Flight Reaction
An automatic stress response where the body prepares to flee from danger. It's part of the "fight-or-flight" response, triggered by the sympathetic nervous system and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. This leads to rapid heartbeat, increased alertness, and muscle readiness.
Flight Reaction
An automatic stress response where the body prepares to flee from danger. It's part of the "fight-or-flight" response, triggered by the sympathetic nervous system and the release of stress hormones like adrenaline. This leads to rapid heartbeat, increased alertness, and muscle readiness.
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Gambling, pathological
A behavioral addiction marked by repeated, compulsive gambling that disrupts personal, social, and work life. The person struggles to control or stop despite negative consequences. Also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder.
Gambling, pathological
A behavioral addiction marked by repeated, compulsive gambling that disrupts personal, social, and work life. The person struggles to control or stop despite negative consequences. Also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder.
Gaslighting
A form of emotional manipulation where someone systematically distorts facts or denies experiences to make another person question their reality or sanity. It’s widely discussed in trauma-informed care and abuse contexts.
Gaslighting
A form of emotional manipulation where someone systematically distorts facts or denies experiences to make another person question their reality or sanity. It’s widely discussed in trauma-informed care and abuse contexts.
Gender Identity
A deeply held sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. It typically develops early in life and reflects the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Gender Identity
A deeply held sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. It typically develops early in life and reflects the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Gender dysphoria
Gender dysphoria is the psychological distress that occurs when a person's gender identity (their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between) does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth (male or female based on anatomy). This incongruence can lead to significant emotional pain, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, or difficulties in daily functioning.
Gender dysphoria
Gender dysphoria is the psychological distress that occurs when a person's gender identity (their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between) does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth (male or female based on anatomy). This incongruence can lead to significant emotional pain, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, or difficulties in daily functioning.
Grief Reaction
A natural response to the loss of a loved one, often moving through stages like shock, intense sadness, and eventual adjustment. While grief typically eases with time, in some cases it may become prolonged or complicated, resembling clinical depression.
Grief Reaction
A natural response to the loss of a loved one, often moving through stages like shock, intense sadness, and eventual adjustment. While grief typically eases with time, in some cases it may become prolonged or complicated, resembling clinical depression.
Growth Hormone (GH)
A hormone made by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and regulates metabolism. GH deficiency can cause short stature (dwarfism) in children; too much GH can lead to gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults.
Growth Hormone (GH)
A hormone made by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and regulates metabolism. GH deficiency can cause short stature (dwarfism) in children; too much GH can lead to gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults.
H
Habit and Impulse Disorder
A group of mental health conditions marked by repeated actions the person feels driven to perform—even when harmful. These acts are hard to control and lack clear reasoning. Examples include compulsive gambling, kleptomania, pyromania, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), and intermittent explosive disorder.
Habit and Impulse Disorder
A group of mental health conditions marked by repeated actions the person feels driven to perform—even when harmful. These acts are hard to control and lack clear reasoning. Examples include compulsive gambling, kleptomania, pyromania, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), and intermittent explosive disorder.
Hallucination
Sensing something that isn’t there—like hearing voices or seeing things without external cause. Hallucinations can involve any sense (sound, sight, touch, smell, taste) and may occur in psychiatric conditions (like schizophrenia), neurological illness, or drug effects. They can also happen briefly when falling asleep or waking up (hypnagogic or hypnopompic states).
Hallucination
Sensing something that isn’t there—like hearing voices or seeing things without external cause. Hallucinations can involve any sense (sound, sight, touch, smell, taste) and may occur in psychiatric conditions (like schizophrenia), neurological illness, or drug effects. They can also happen briefly when falling asleep or waking up (hypnagogic or hypnopompic states).
Histrionic
A pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals may be dramatic, use exaggerated expressions, and seek to be the center of attention. Emotions can seem shallow or rapidly shifting. These traits may be part of Histrionic Personality Disorder if they are persistent and impair daily functioning.
Histrionic
A pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals may be dramatic, use exaggerated expressions, and seek to be the center of attention. Emotions can seem shallow or rapidly shifting. These traits may be part of Histrionic Personality Disorder if they are persistent and impair daily functioning.
HIV-Associated Acute Stress Reaction
An intense emotional and physical response following diagnosis of HIV or during health changes. It may include shock, fear, guilt, anger, withdrawal, and somatic symptoms (like fatigue or aches) that are often mistaken for disease progression. These reactions are most common soon after learning one’s HIV-positive status or during shifts in physical health.
HIV-Associated Acute Stress Reaction
An intense emotional and physical response following diagnosis of HIV or during health changes. It may include shock, fear, guilt, anger, withdrawal, and somatic symptoms (like fatigue or aches) that are often mistaken for disease progression. These reactions are most common soon after learning one’s HIV-positive status or during shifts in physical health.
Hypnosis
A focused trance-like state marked by deep relaxation, narrowed attention, and increased suggestibility. It can help people access memories, manage pain, or reduce psychological distress. Hypnosis is used in clinical settings (like hypnotherapy) and differs from sleep.
Hypnosis
A focused trance-like state marked by deep relaxation, narrowed attention, and increased suggestibility. It can help people access memories, manage pain, or reduce psychological distress. Hypnosis is used in clinical settings (like hypnotherapy) and differs from sleep.
I
Identity Disorder
Marked uncertainty about self-image, beliefs, or goals, often seen in adolescence. It can impair social and emotional functioning. Now more often discussed within the context of personality development or borderline personality traits.
Identity Disorder
Marked uncertainty about self-image, beliefs, or goals, often seen in adolescence. It can impair social and emotional functioning. Now more often discussed within the context of personality development or borderline personality traits.
Imposter Syndrome
A well-known psychological pattern where high-achieving people doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds, even when their success is earned. It’s not a clinical diagnosis but can lead to stress, perfectionism, and burnout.
Imposter Syndrome
A well-known psychological pattern where high-achieving people doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds, even when their success is earned. It’s not a clinical diagnosis but can lead to stress, perfectionism, and burnout.
Impulse Control
The ability to resist urges that may be harmful or socially inappropriate. Loss of this control is seen in conditions like impulse control disorders, ADHD, or substance use.
Impulse Control
The ability to resist urges that may be harmful or socially inappropriate. Loss of this control is seen in conditions like impulse control disorders, ADHD, or substance use.
Incoherence
Severely disorganized speech and thinking, marked by illogical connections, abrupt topic shifts, or nonsensical grammar. Often seen in schizophrenia or severe psychosis.
Incoherence
Severely disorganized speech and thinking, marked by illogical connections, abrupt topic shifts, or nonsensical grammar. Often seen in schizophrenia or severe psychosis.
Insomnia, Nonorganic
Persistent trouble falling or staying asleep without a clear medical cause. May be linked to stress, depression, or anxiety. Also called primary insomnia in some contexts.
Insomnia, Nonorganic
Persistent trouble falling or staying asleep without a clear medical cause. May be linked to stress, depression, or anxiety. Also called primary insomnia in some contexts.
Irritability
Heightened sensitivity to frustration, leading to impatience or anger. It may result from fatigue, pain, neurological illness, or mood disorders.
Irritability
Heightened sensitivity to frustration, leading to impatience or anger. It may result from fatigue, pain, neurological illness, or mood disorders.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A common gut–brain disorder causing recurring abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). It doesn't involve visible damage to the intestines, but can deeply affect quality of life. IBS is linked to stress, gut sensitivity, and altered motility.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A common gut–brain disorder causing recurring abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). It doesn't involve visible damage to the intestines, but can deeply affect quality of life. IBS is linked to stress, gut sensitivity, and altered motility.
G
G
Gambling, pathological
A behavioral addiction marked by repeated, compulsive gambling that disrupts personal, social, and work life. The person struggles to control or stop despite negative consequences. Also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder.
Gambling, pathological
A behavioral addiction marked by repeated, compulsive gambling that disrupts personal, social, and work life. The person struggles to control or stop despite negative consequences. Also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder.
Gaslighting
A form of emotional manipulation where someone systematically distorts facts or denies experiences to make another person question their reality or sanity. It’s widely discussed in trauma-informed care and abuse contexts.
Gaslighting
A form of emotional manipulation where someone systematically distorts facts or denies experiences to make another person question their reality or sanity. It’s widely discussed in trauma-informed care and abuse contexts.
Gender Identity
A deeply held sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. It typically develops early in life and reflects the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Gender Identity
A deeply held sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum. It typically develops early in life and reflects the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Gender dysphoria
Gender dysphoria is the psychological distress that occurs when a person's gender identity (their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between) does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth (male or female based on anatomy). This incongruence can lead to significant emotional pain, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, or difficulties in daily functioning.
Gender dysphoria
Gender dysphoria is the psychological distress that occurs when a person's gender identity (their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between) does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth (male or female based on anatomy). This incongruence can lead to significant emotional pain, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, or difficulties in daily functioning.
Grief Reaction
A natural response to the loss of a loved one, often moving through stages like shock, intense sadness, and eventual adjustment. While grief typically eases with time, in some cases it may become prolonged or complicated, resembling clinical depression.
Grief Reaction
A natural response to the loss of a loved one, often moving through stages like shock, intense sadness, and eventual adjustment. While grief typically eases with time, in some cases it may become prolonged or complicated, resembling clinical depression.
Growth Hormone (GH)
A hormone made by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and regulates metabolism. GH deficiency can cause short stature (dwarfism) in children; too much GH can lead to gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults.
Growth Hormone (GH)
A hormone made by the pituitary gland that stimulates body growth and regulates metabolism. GH deficiency can cause short stature (dwarfism) in children; too much GH can lead to gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults.
H
H
Habit and Impulse Disorder
A group of mental health conditions marked by repeated actions the person feels driven to perform—even when harmful. These acts are hard to control and lack clear reasoning. Examples include compulsive gambling, kleptomania, pyromania, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), and intermittent explosive disorder.
Habit and Impulse Disorder
A group of mental health conditions marked by repeated actions the person feels driven to perform—even when harmful. These acts are hard to control and lack clear reasoning. Examples include compulsive gambling, kleptomania, pyromania, trichotillomania (hair-pulling), and intermittent explosive disorder.
Hallucination
Sensing something that isn’t there—like hearing voices or seeing things without external cause. Hallucinations can involve any sense (sound, sight, touch, smell, taste) and may occur in psychiatric conditions (like schizophrenia), neurological illness, or drug effects. They can also happen briefly when falling asleep or waking up (hypnagogic or hypnopompic states).
Hallucination
Sensing something that isn’t there—like hearing voices or seeing things without external cause. Hallucinations can involve any sense (sound, sight, touch, smell, taste) and may occur in psychiatric conditions (like schizophrenia), neurological illness, or drug effects. They can also happen briefly when falling asleep or waking up (hypnagogic or hypnopompic states).
Histrionic
A pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals may be dramatic, use exaggerated expressions, and seek to be the center of attention. Emotions can seem shallow or rapidly shifting. These traits may be part of Histrionic Personality Disorder if they are persistent and impair daily functioning.
Histrionic
A pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals may be dramatic, use exaggerated expressions, and seek to be the center of attention. Emotions can seem shallow or rapidly shifting. These traits may be part of Histrionic Personality Disorder if they are persistent and impair daily functioning.
HIV-Associated Acute Stress Reaction
An intense emotional and physical response following diagnosis of HIV or during health changes. It may include shock, fear, guilt, anger, withdrawal, and somatic symptoms (like fatigue or aches) that are often mistaken for disease progression. These reactions are most common soon after learning one’s HIV-positive status or during shifts in physical health.
HIV-Associated Acute Stress Reaction
An intense emotional and physical response following diagnosis of HIV or during health changes. It may include shock, fear, guilt, anger, withdrawal, and somatic symptoms (like fatigue or aches) that are often mistaken for disease progression. These reactions are most common soon after learning one’s HIV-positive status or during shifts in physical health.
Hypnosis
A focused trance-like state marked by deep relaxation, narrowed attention, and increased suggestibility. It can help people access memories, manage pain, or reduce psychological distress. Hypnosis is used in clinical settings (like hypnotherapy) and differs from sleep.
Hypnosis
A focused trance-like state marked by deep relaxation, narrowed attention, and increased suggestibility. It can help people access memories, manage pain, or reduce psychological distress. Hypnosis is used in clinical settings (like hypnotherapy) and differs from sleep.
I
I
Identity Disorder
Marked uncertainty about self-image, beliefs, or goals, often seen in adolescence. It can impair social and emotional functioning. Now more often discussed within the context of personality development or borderline personality traits.
Identity Disorder
Marked uncertainty about self-image, beliefs, or goals, often seen in adolescence. It can impair social and emotional functioning. Now more often discussed within the context of personality development or borderline personality traits.
Imposter Syndrome
A well-known psychological pattern where high-achieving people doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds, even when their success is earned. It’s not a clinical diagnosis but can lead to stress, perfectionism, and burnout.
Imposter Syndrome
A well-known psychological pattern where high-achieving people doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as frauds, even when their success is earned. It’s not a clinical diagnosis but can lead to stress, perfectionism, and burnout.
Impulse Control
The ability to resist urges that may be harmful or socially inappropriate. Loss of this control is seen in conditions like impulse control disorders, ADHD, or substance use.
Impulse Control
The ability to resist urges that may be harmful or socially inappropriate. Loss of this control is seen in conditions like impulse control disorders, ADHD, or substance use.
Incoherence
Severely disorganized speech and thinking, marked by illogical connections, abrupt topic shifts, or nonsensical grammar. Often seen in schizophrenia or severe psychosis.
Incoherence
Severely disorganized speech and thinking, marked by illogical connections, abrupt topic shifts, or nonsensical grammar. Often seen in schizophrenia or severe psychosis.
Insomnia, Nonorganic
Persistent trouble falling or staying asleep without a clear medical cause. May be linked to stress, depression, or anxiety. Also called primary insomnia in some contexts.
Insomnia, Nonorganic
Persistent trouble falling or staying asleep without a clear medical cause. May be linked to stress, depression, or anxiety. Also called primary insomnia in some contexts.
Irritability
Heightened sensitivity to frustration, leading to impatience or anger. It may result from fatigue, pain, neurological illness, or mood disorders.
Irritability
Heightened sensitivity to frustration, leading to impatience or anger. It may result from fatigue, pain, neurological illness, or mood disorders.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A common gut–brain disorder causing recurring abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). It doesn't involve visible damage to the intestines, but can deeply affect quality of life. IBS is linked to stress, gut sensitivity, and altered motility.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A common gut–brain disorder causing recurring abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). It doesn't involve visible damage to the intestines, but can deeply affect quality of life. IBS is linked to stress, gut sensitivity, and altered motility.
J
Jargon Aphasia
A type of Wernicke’s aphasia where speech sounds grammatically correct but is filled with meaningless or made-up words. The person often doesn’t realize their speech lacks sense.
Jargon Aphasia
A type of Wernicke’s aphasia where speech sounds grammatically correct but is filled with meaningless or made-up words. The person often doesn’t realize their speech lacks sense.
Jargon Aphasia
A type of Wernicke’s aphasia where speech sounds grammatically correct but is filled with meaningless or made-up words. The person often doesn’t realize their speech lacks sense.
Jealousy
An emotional response to perceived threats to a valued relationship, often involving fear, anger, or insecurity. Can be normal or become delusional in psychiatric disorders (e.g., Othello syndrome in psychosis).
Jealousy
An emotional response to perceived threats to a valued relationship, often involving fear, anger, or insecurity. Can be normal or become delusional in psychiatric disorders (e.g., Othello syndrome in psychosis).
Jealousy
An emotional response to perceived threats to a valued relationship, often involving fear, anger, or insecurity. Can be normal or become delusional in psychiatric disorders (e.g., Othello syndrome in psychosis).
K
Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a mental health disorder marked by repeated impulsive urges to steal items not needed for personal use or money. The behavior isn’t driven by anger or financial need, and often brings guilt or regret. It’s linked to conditions like depression, anxiety, or OCD, and is treatable with therapy and, sometimes, medication.
Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a mental health disorder marked by repeated impulsive urges to steal items not needed for personal use or money. The behavior isn’t driven by anger or financial need, and often brings guilt or regret. It’s linked to conditions like depression, anxiety, or OCD, and is treatable with therapy and, sometimes, medication.
Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a mental health disorder marked by repeated impulsive urges to steal items not needed for personal use or money. The behavior isn’t driven by anger or financial need, and often brings guilt or regret. It’s linked to conditions like depression, anxiety, or OCD, and is treatable with therapy and, sometimes, medication.
Korsakoff psychosis
Korsakoff psychosis is a chronic brain disorder marked by severe short-term memory loss, confusion about time, and confabulation (filling memory gaps with false but plausible information). It most often occurs in people with long-term alcohol dependence and is caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). While sometimes preceded by Wernicke’s encephalopathy, Korsakoff syndrome itself tends to be long-lasting and may not fully reverse even with treatment.
Korsakoff psychosis
Korsakoff psychosis is a chronic brain disorder marked by severe short-term memory loss, confusion about time, and confabulation (filling memory gaps with false but plausible information). It most often occurs in people with long-term alcohol dependence and is caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). While sometimes preceded by Wernicke’s encephalopathy, Korsakoff syndrome itself tends to be long-lasting and may not fully reverse even with treatment.
Korsakoff psychosis
Korsakoff psychosis is a chronic brain disorder marked by severe short-term memory loss, confusion about time, and confabulation (filling memory gaps with false but plausible information). It most often occurs in people with long-term alcohol dependence and is caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). While sometimes preceded by Wernicke’s encephalopathy, Korsakoff syndrome itself tends to be long-lasting and may not fully reverse even with treatment.
L
Language Disorder, Expressive
A developmental condition where a child has trouble using spoken language (expressive speech), despite understanding language normally. Speech may be delayed or limited, and articulation can vary. Also called: Expressive dysphasia or expressive aphasia (developmental type).
Language Disorder, Expressive
A developmental condition where a child has trouble using spoken language (expressive speech), despite understanding language normally. Speech may be delayed or limited, and articulation can vary. Also called: Expressive dysphasia or expressive aphasia (developmental type).
Language Disorder, Expressive
A developmental condition where a child has trouble using spoken language (expressive speech), despite understanding language normally. Speech may be delayed or limited, and articulation can vary. Also called: Expressive dysphasia or expressive aphasia (developmental type).
Late-Life Depression
A form of clinical depression occurring in adults typically aged 65 and older. It can be a first-time episode or a recurrence of earlier depression. Often underdiagnosed, it may be mistaken for “normal aging,” especially when symptoms include fatigue, poor concentration, or physical complaints rather than sadness. Triggers often include chronic illness, social isolation, cognitive decline, or the loss of a spouse or peers.
Late-Life Depression
A form of clinical depression occurring in adults typically aged 65 and older. It can be a first-time episode or a recurrence of earlier depression. Often underdiagnosed, it may be mistaken for “normal aging,” especially when symptoms include fatigue, poor concentration, or physical complaints rather than sadness. Triggers often include chronic illness, social isolation, cognitive decline, or the loss of a spouse or peers.
Late-Life Depression
A form of clinical depression occurring in adults typically aged 65 and older. It can be a first-time episode or a recurrence of earlier depression. Often underdiagnosed, it may be mistaken for “normal aging,” especially when symptoms include fatigue, poor concentration, or physical complaints rather than sadness. Triggers often include chronic illness, social isolation, cognitive decline, or the loss of a spouse or peers.
Life-Cycle Transitions
Natural life changes tied to age or stage, like adolescence, parenthood, or retirement. These can challenge a person’s roles, identity, and coping skills — sometimes triggering distress or mental health issues.
Life-Cycle Transitions
Natural life changes tied to age or stage, like adolescence, parenthood, or retirement. These can challenge a person’s roles, identity, and coping skills — sometimes triggering distress or mental health issues.
Life-Cycle Transitions
Natural life changes tied to age or stage, like adolescence, parenthood, or retirement. These can challenge a person’s roles, identity, and coping skills — sometimes triggering distress or mental health issues.
Life-Management Difficulty
Persistent problems in coping with responsibilities or demands in daily life — social, work-related, or personal — even in the absence of a formal mental disorder.
Life-Management Difficulty
Persistent problems in coping with responsibilities or demands in daily life — social, work-related, or personal — even in the absence of a formal mental disorder.
Life-Management Difficulty
Persistent problems in coping with responsibilities or demands in daily life — social, work-related, or personal — even in the absence of a formal mental disorder.
Limbic Epilepsy
A type of temporal lobe epilepsy involving dysfunction in the brain’s limbic system. It may cause seizures along with long-term personality changes, mood disorders, or psychosis-like symptoms. The underlying mechanism may involve "kindling" — repeated stimulation that lowers the threshold for seizure activity.
Limbic Epilepsy
A type of temporal lobe epilepsy involving dysfunction in the brain’s limbic system. It may cause seizures along with long-term personality changes, mood disorders, or psychosis-like symptoms. The underlying mechanism may involve "kindling" — repeated stimulation that lowers the threshold for seizure activity.
Limbic Epilepsy
A type of temporal lobe epilepsy involving dysfunction in the brain’s limbic system. It may cause seizures along with long-term personality changes, mood disorders, or psychosis-like symptoms. The underlying mechanism may involve "kindling" — repeated stimulation that lowers the threshold for seizure activity.
M
Make-believe play
Pretend play common in childhood that involves imagination, such as using toys or objects to represent real-world situations. It reflects the child’s understanding, creativity, and communication skills.
Make-believe play
Pretend play common in childhood that involves imagination, such as using toys or objects to represent real-world situations. It reflects the child’s understanding, creativity, and communication skills.
Make-believe play
Pretend play common in childhood that involves imagination, such as using toys or objects to represent real-world situations. It reflects the child’s understanding, creativity, and communication skills.
Mania
A state of abnormally elevated mood, energy, and activity levels that may include impulsivity, reduced need for sleep, rapid speech, and inflated self-esteem. It can affect judgment and functioning, and often appears as part of bipolar I disorder. Mania is distinct from general happiness or high energy and typically requires clinical attention.
Mania
A state of abnormally elevated mood, energy, and activity levels that may include impulsivity, reduced need for sleep, rapid speech, and inflated self-esteem. It can affect judgment and functioning, and often appears as part of bipolar I disorder. Mania is distinct from general happiness or high energy and typically requires clinical attention.
Mania
A state of abnormally elevated mood, energy, and activity levels that may include impulsivity, reduced need for sleep, rapid speech, and inflated self-esteem. It can affect judgment and functioning, and often appears as part of bipolar I disorder. Mania is distinct from general happiness or high energy and typically requires clinical attention.
Melancholia
A historically used term for severe depression, once considered distinct for its profound mood disturbance and physical symptoms. Today, it refers to a subtype of major depressive disorder marked by loss of pleasure, lack of reactivity, and early-morning worsening of mood.
Melancholia
A historically used term for severe depression, once considered distinct for its profound mood disturbance and physical symptoms. Today, it refers to a subtype of major depressive disorder marked by loss of pleasure, lack of reactivity, and early-morning worsening of mood.
Melancholia
A historically used term for severe depression, once considered distinct for its profound mood disturbance and physical symptoms. Today, it refers to a subtype of major depressive disorder marked by loss of pleasure, lack of reactivity, and early-morning worsening of mood.
Mental disorder, organic
A group of mental conditions caused by physical damage or disease affecting the brain. This can result from direct causes (like head injury or stroke) or indirect ones (such as liver or kidney failure). Symptoms vary but may include confusion, memory problems, or personality changes.
Mental disorder, organic
A group of mental conditions caused by physical damage or disease affecting the brain. This can result from direct causes (like head injury or stroke) or indirect ones (such as liver or kidney failure). Symptoms vary but may include confusion, memory problems, or personality changes.
Mental disorder, organic
A group of mental conditions caused by physical damage or disease affecting the brain. This can result from direct causes (like head injury or stroke) or indirect ones (such as liver or kidney failure). Symptoms vary but may include confusion, memory problems, or personality changes.
Munchausen Syndrome
A rare psychological condition where a person repeatedly fakes, exaggerates, or deliberately causes illness in themselves. The goal isn’t financial or material gain, but to gain medical attention, sympathy, or care.
Munchausen Syndrome
A rare psychological condition where a person repeatedly fakes, exaggerates, or deliberately causes illness in themselves. The goal isn’t financial or material gain, but to gain medical attention, sympathy, or care.
Munchausen Syndrome
A rare psychological condition where a person repeatedly fakes, exaggerates, or deliberately causes illness in themselves. The goal isn’t financial or material gain, but to gain medical attention, sympathy, or care.
Munchausen by Proxy
A serious form of abuse where a caregiver — often a parent — fabricates or induces illness in someone under their care, typically a child. The motive is to draw attention, praise, or sympathy as a devoted caregiver. It can cause real harm and is considered both a mental health and child protection concern.
Munchausen by Proxy
A serious form of abuse where a caregiver — often a parent — fabricates or induces illness in someone under their care, typically a child. The motive is to draw attention, praise, or sympathy as a devoted caregiver. It can cause real harm and is considered both a mental health and child protection concern.
Munchausen by Proxy
A serious form of abuse where a caregiver — often a parent — fabricates or induces illness in someone under their care, typically a child. The motive is to draw attention, praise, or sympathy as a devoted caregiver. It can cause real harm and is considered both a mental health and child protection concern.
N
Narcolepsy
A lifelong neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. It causes sudden episodes of sleep, excessive daytime drowsiness, and sometimes muscle weakness (cataplexy). People may also experience vivid dreams or sleep paralysis. It has a genetic link and is treatable.
Narcolepsy
A lifelong neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. It causes sudden episodes of sleep, excessive daytime drowsiness, and sometimes muscle weakness (cataplexy). People may also experience vivid dreams or sleep paralysis. It has a genetic link and is treatable.
Narcolepsy
A lifelong neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. It causes sudden episodes of sleep, excessive daytime drowsiness, and sometimes muscle weakness (cataplexy). People may also experience vivid dreams or sleep paralysis. It has a genetic link and is treatable.
Negative symptoms
Features of some mental health conditions—like schizophrenia—that reflect a reduction or loss of normal functions. This can include flat emotion, low motivation, social withdrawal, or reduced speech. Unlike “positive symptoms” (like hallucinations), negative symptoms are less visible but deeply impairing.
Negative symptoms
Features of some mental health conditions—like schizophrenia—that reflect a reduction or loss of normal functions. This can include flat emotion, low motivation, social withdrawal, or reduced speech. Unlike “positive symptoms” (like hallucinations), negative symptoms are less visible but deeply impairing.
Negative symptoms
Features of some mental health conditions—like schizophrenia—that reflect a reduction or loss of normal functions. This can include flat emotion, low motivation, social withdrawal, or reduced speech. Unlike “positive symptoms” (like hallucinations), negative symptoms are less visible but deeply impairing.
Neurotic disorder
An older term once used to describe conditions involving distress without a break from reality, such as anxiety, phobias, obsessive thinking, or mild depression. Though not used officially today, “neurotic” is still commonly heard to describe someone who feels overly worried or emotionally reactive.
Neurotic disorder
An older term once used to describe conditions involving distress without a break from reality, such as anxiety, phobias, obsessive thinking, or mild depression. Though not used officially today, “neurotic” is still commonly heard to describe someone who feels overly worried or emotionally reactive.
Neurotic disorder
An older term once used to describe conditions involving distress without a break from reality, such as anxiety, phobias, obsessive thinking, or mild depression. Though not used officially today, “neurotic” is still commonly heard to describe someone who feels overly worried or emotionally reactive.
Nosophobia
A strong and persistent fear of having a serious illness, despite medical reassurance. It differs from general health anxiety by being more specific and fixed on certain diseases. Common in people with anxiety disorders and often amplified by online health content.
Nosophobia
A strong and persistent fear of having a serious illness, despite medical reassurance. It differs from general health anxiety by being more specific and fixed on certain diseases. Common in people with anxiety disorders and often amplified by online health content.
Nosophobia
A strong and persistent fear of having a serious illness, despite medical reassurance. It differs from general health anxiety by being more specific and fixed on certain diseases. Common in people with anxiety disorders and often amplified by online health content.
Nonverbal intelligence
Cognitive abilities that don’t depend on language—like visual reasoning, pattern recognition, spatial skills, or hand-eye coordination. Often assessed in learning evaluations, especially when verbal skills are affected by language, neurodevelopmental, or communication differences.
Nonverbal intelligence
Cognitive abilities that don’t depend on language—like visual reasoning, pattern recognition, spatial skills, or hand-eye coordination. Often assessed in learning evaluations, especially when verbal skills are affected by language, neurodevelopmental, or communication differences.
Nonverbal intelligence
Cognitive abilities that don’t depend on language—like visual reasoning, pattern recognition, spatial skills, or hand-eye coordination. Often assessed in learning evaluations, especially when verbal skills are affected by language, neurodevelopmental, or communication differences.
O
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A condition characterized by the presence of obsessions—persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, urges, or images—and/or compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to those obsessions or according to rigid rules. The behaviors are intended to reduce distress or prevent a feared outcome, though they are not realistically connected to what they are meant to prevent. Individuals typically recognize the symptoms as excessive or irrational at some point during the course of the disorder. OCD can vary widely in content and severity and often causes significant distress or functional impairment.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A condition characterized by the presence of obsessions—persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, urges, or images—and/or compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to those obsessions or according to rigid rules. The behaviors are intended to reduce distress or prevent a feared outcome, though they are not realistically connected to what they are meant to prevent. Individuals typically recognize the symptoms as excessive or irrational at some point during the course of the disorder. OCD can vary widely in content and severity and often causes significant distress or functional impairment.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A condition characterized by the presence of obsessions—persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, urges, or images—and/or compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to those obsessions or according to rigid rules. The behaviors are intended to reduce distress or prevent a feared outcome, though they are not realistically connected to what they are meant to prevent. Individuals typically recognize the symptoms as excessive or irrational at some point during the course of the disorder. OCD can vary widely in content and severity and often causes significant distress or functional impairment.
Overprotection
A caregiving style in which a parent or guardian excessively shields a child from perceived harm or failure, often limiting the child's ability to develop independence. While often well-intentioned, overprotection can hinder emotional resilience and problem-solving skills.
Overprotection
A caregiving style in which a parent or guardian excessively shields a child from perceived harm or failure, often limiting the child's ability to develop independence. While often well-intentioned, overprotection can hinder emotional resilience and problem-solving skills.
Overprotection
A caregiving style in which a parent or guardian excessively shields a child from perceived harm or failure, often limiting the child's ability to develop independence. While often well-intentioned, overprotection can hinder emotional resilience and problem-solving skills.
P
Panic Disorder
A mental health condition marked by sudden, unpredictable episodes of intense fear or discomfort (panic attacks). Symptoms may include heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, or a sense of unreality. These attacks are not tied to specific situations and may come with a fear of dying or losing control.
Panic Disorder
A mental health condition marked by sudden, unpredictable episodes of intense fear or discomfort (panic attacks). Symptoms may include heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, or a sense of unreality. These attacks are not tied to specific situations and may come with a fear of dying or losing control.
Panic Disorder
A mental health condition marked by sudden, unpredictable episodes of intense fear or discomfort (panic attacks). Symptoms may include heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, or a sense of unreality. These attacks are not tied to specific situations and may come with a fear of dying or losing control.
Paralysis
The loss of voluntary muscle movement due to a problem in the nervous system or muscles. It can result from physical injury, neurological conditions, or functional (non-structural) causes.
Paralysis
The loss of voluntary muscle movement due to a problem in the nervous system or muscles. It can result from physical injury, neurological conditions, or functional (non-structural) causes.
Paralysis
The loss of voluntary muscle movement due to a problem in the nervous system or muscles. It can result from physical injury, neurological conditions, or functional (non-structural) causes.
Paranoia
A rare and chronic mental condition involving persistent, well-structured delusions—often about persecution, grandeur, or bodily dysfunction—without the disorganized thinking or hallucinations seen in other psychoses.
Paranoia
A rare and chronic mental condition involving persistent, well-structured delusions—often about persecution, grandeur, or bodily dysfunction—without the disorganized thinking or hallucinations seen in other psychoses.
Paranoia
A rare and chronic mental condition involving persistent, well-structured delusions—often about persecution, grandeur, or bodily dysfunction—without the disorganized thinking or hallucinations seen in other psychoses.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of brain cells in areas controlling movement, especially the substantia nigra. Common symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements (bradykinesia), and balance issues. It can also be drug-induced or related to other brain conditions.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of brain cells in areas controlling movement, especially the substantia nigra. Common symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements (bradykinesia), and balance issues. It can also be drug-induced or related to other brain conditions.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of brain cells in areas controlling movement, especially the substantia nigra. Common symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements (bradykinesia), and balance issues. It can also be drug-induced or related to other brain conditions.
Personality and Behaviour Disorder
Long-term patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that deviate significantly from cultural expectations and affect personal, social, or occupational functioning. This includes conditions like personality disorders, impulse control issues, and certain behavioural or identity-related difficulties.
Personality and Behaviour Disorder
Long-term patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that deviate significantly from cultural expectations and affect personal, social, or occupational functioning. This includes conditions like personality disorders, impulse control issues, and certain behavioural or identity-related difficulties.
Personality and Behaviour Disorder
Long-term patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that deviate significantly from cultural expectations and affect personal, social, or occupational functioning. This includes conditions like personality disorders, impulse control issues, and certain behavioural or identity-related difficulties.
Q
Quetelet Body Mass Index (BMI)
An anthropometric index calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). Proposed by Adolphe Quetelet in the 19th century, it is still widely used today to assess weight relative to height, especially in screening for underweight or overweight conditions. It can be a reference point in understanding patterns in eating disorders, but does not diagnose them.
Quetelet Body Mass Index (BMI)
An anthropometric index calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). Proposed by Adolphe Quetelet in the 19th century, it is still widely used today to assess weight relative to height, especially in screening for underweight or overweight conditions. It can be a reference point in understanding patterns in eating disorders, but does not diagnose them.
Quetelet Body Mass Index (BMI)
An anthropometric index calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). Proposed by Adolphe Quetelet in the 19th century, it is still widely used today to assess weight relative to height, especially in screening for underweight or overweight conditions. It can be a reference point in understanding patterns in eating disorders, but does not diagnose them.
Quality of Life (QoL)
A broad term used to describe an individual’s overall well-being across physical, emotional, social, and functional areas of life. In mental health, QoL assessments help evaluate how psychological conditions or treatments impact a person’s day-to-day experience — beyond just symptoms — including factors like relationships, work, independence, and emotional resilience.
Quality of Life (QoL)
A broad term used to describe an individual’s overall well-being across physical, emotional, social, and functional areas of life. In mental health, QoL assessments help evaluate how psychological conditions or treatments impact a person’s day-to-day experience — beyond just symptoms — including factors like relationships, work, independence, and emotional resilience.
Quality of Life (QoL)
A broad term used to describe an individual’s overall well-being across physical, emotional, social, and functional areas of life. In mental health, QoL assessments help evaluate how psychological conditions or treatments impact a person’s day-to-day experience — beyond just symptoms — including factors like relationships, work, independence, and emotional resilience.
R
Reactive Psychosis
A brief and intense mental health episode triggered by a major external stressor (like a loss or trauma). Symptoms often mirror the nature of the triggering event and may involve confusion, depression, or delusions. Recovery usually begins once the stressor eases, but not always.
Reactive Psychosis
A brief and intense mental health episode triggered by a major external stressor (like a loss or trauma). Symptoms often mirror the nature of the triggering event and may involve confusion, depression, or delusions. Recovery usually begins once the stressor eases, but not always.
Reactive Psychosis
A brief and intense mental health episode triggered by a major external stressor (like a loss or trauma). Symptoms often mirror the nature of the triggering event and may involve confusion, depression, or delusions. Recovery usually begins once the stressor eases, but not always.
Reading Disorder, Specific
A developmental condition that significantly impairs reading skills despite normal intelligence and adequate schooling. It may affect reading comprehension, fluency, or word recognition. Spelling issues and early language delays are often linked.
Reading Disorder, Specific
A developmental condition that significantly impairs reading skills despite normal intelligence and adequate schooling. It may affect reading comprehension, fluency, or word recognition. Spelling issues and early language delays are often linked.
Reading Disorder, Specific
A developmental condition that significantly impairs reading skills despite normal intelligence and adequate schooling. It may affect reading comprehension, fluency, or word recognition. Spelling issues and early language delays are often linked.
Rehabilitation
An approach that combines medical, emotional, educational, and vocational support to help individuals with disabilities regain the highest possible level of independence and functioning.
Rehabilitation
An approach that combines medical, emotional, educational, and vocational support to help individuals with disabilities regain the highest possible level of independence and functioning.
Rehabilitation
An approach that combines medical, emotional, educational, and vocational support to help individuals with disabilities regain the highest possible level of independence and functioning.
REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep)
A stage of sleep that recurs roughly every 90 minutes, marked by quick eye movements, vivid dreaming, and changes in breathing, heart rate, and brain activity. REM sleep supports emotional regulation, memory, and learning. It's also known as paradoxical sleep because the brain is active while the body remains still.
REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep)
A stage of sleep that recurs roughly every 90 minutes, marked by quick eye movements, vivid dreaming, and changes in breathing, heart rate, and brain activity. REM sleep supports emotional regulation, memory, and learning. It's also known as paradoxical sleep because the brain is active while the body remains still.
REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep)
A stage of sleep that recurs roughly every 90 minutes, marked by quick eye movements, vivid dreaming, and changes in breathing, heart rate, and brain activity. REM sleep supports emotional regulation, memory, and learning. It's also known as paradoxical sleep because the brain is active while the body remains still.
Restless Legs Syndrome
A condition causing uncomfortable leg sensations during rest or drowsiness, relieved only by movement. Often worse at night, it can be linked to genetics or occur alongside nighttime muscle jerks (nocturnal myoclonus).
Restless Legs Syndrome
A condition causing uncomfortable leg sensations during rest or drowsiness, relieved only by movement. Often worse at night, it can be linked to genetics or occur alongside nighttime muscle jerks (nocturnal myoclonus).
Restless Legs Syndrome
A condition causing uncomfortable leg sensations during rest or drowsiness, relieved only by movement. Often worse at night, it can be linked to genetics or occur alongside nighttime muscle jerks (nocturnal myoclonus).
S
Schizoaffective Disorder
A mental health condition where symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and mood disorders (like depression or mania) occur during the same episode. It can be depressive, manic, or mixed, depending on the dominant mood symptoms.
Schizoaffective Disorder
A mental health condition where symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and mood disorders (like depression or mania) occur during the same episode. It can be depressive, manic, or mixed, depending on the dominant mood symptoms.
Schizoaffective Disorder
A mental health condition where symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and mood disorders (like depression or mania) occur during the same episode. It can be depressive, manic, or mixed, depending on the dominant mood symptoms.
Schizophrenia
A long-term mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It may involve hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and reduced emotional expression. People often retain clear consciousness and intellect, though some cognitive decline can occur over time. Symptoms may come and go or persist.
Schizophrenia
A long-term mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It may involve hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and reduced emotional expression. People often retain clear consciousness and intellect, though some cognitive decline can occur over time. Symptoms may come and go or persist.
Schizophrenia
A long-term mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It may involve hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and reduced emotional expression. People often retain clear consciousness and intellect, though some cognitive decline can occur over time. Symptoms may come and go or persist.
Sedative
A type of medication or substance that calms the nervous system. It reduces anxiety or agitation and can cause sleep in higher doses.
Sedative
A type of medication or substance that calms the nervous system. It reduces anxiety or agitation and can cause sleep in higher doses.
Sedative
A type of medication or substance that calms the nervous system. It reduces anxiety or agitation and can cause sleep in higher doses.
Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
A condition that happens during deep non-REM sleep, usually in the first third of the night. A person may sit up, walk around, or perform routine actions with little awareness or response to their surroundings. Movements may seem clumsy or automatic, and there’s often no memory of the episode upon waking. It is most common in children but can occur at any age.
Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
A condition that happens during deep non-REM sleep, usually in the first third of the night. A person may sit up, walk around, or perform routine actions with little awareness or response to their surroundings. Movements may seem clumsy or automatic, and there’s often no memory of the episode upon waking. It is most common in children but can occur at any age.
Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
A condition that happens during deep non-REM sleep, usually in the first third of the night. A person may sit up, walk around, or perform routine actions with little awareness or response to their surroundings. Movements may seem clumsy or automatic, and there’s often no memory of the episode upon waking. It is most common in children but can occur at any age.
Social Anxiety Disorder
A lasting fear of embarrassment or judgment in social or performance situations. It often starts in adolescence and can lead to intense anxiety, physical symptoms (like blushing or sweating), and avoidance of social settings.
Social Anxiety Disorder
A lasting fear of embarrassment or judgment in social or performance situations. It often starts in adolescence and can lead to intense anxiety, physical symptoms (like blushing or sweating), and avoidance of social settings.
Social Anxiety Disorder
A lasting fear of embarrassment or judgment in social or performance situations. It often starts in adolescence and can lead to intense anxiety, physical symptoms (like blushing or sweating), and avoidance of social settings.
Stress Reaction, acute
A short-term reaction to an extreme physical or emotional stressor (like an accident or trauma). Symptoms may include confusion, anxiety, withdrawal, or agitation and usually resolve within a few days. It’s not considered a long-term mental illness.
Stress Reaction, acute
A short-term reaction to an extreme physical or emotional stressor (like an accident or trauma). Symptoms may include confusion, anxiety, withdrawal, or agitation and usually resolve within a few days. It’s not considered a long-term mental illness.
Stress Reaction, acute
A short-term reaction to an extreme physical or emotional stressor (like an accident or trauma). Symptoms may include confusion, anxiety, withdrawal, or agitation and usually resolve within a few days. It’s not considered a long-term mental illness.
T
Tension Headache
A common type of headache marked by dull, aching pain or pressure, often described as a tight band around the head. Can be short-lived due to stress or become chronic, especially with anxiety or depression.
Tension Headache
A common type of headache marked by dull, aching pain or pressure, often described as a tight band around the head. Can be short-lived due to stress or become chronic, especially with anxiety or depression.
Tension Headache
A common type of headache marked by dull, aching pain or pressure, often described as a tight band around the head. Can be short-lived due to stress or become chronic, especially with anxiety or depression.
Thought Echo
A symptom where a person hears their own thoughts repeated internally, often moments after thinking them. It may feel intrusive or altered and is typically linked to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Thought Echo
A symptom where a person hears their own thoughts repeated internally, often moments after thinking them. It may feel intrusive or altered and is typically linked to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Thought Echo
A symptom where a person hears their own thoughts repeated internally, often moments after thinking them. It may feel intrusive or altered and is typically linked to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Thyroid Hormone
Hormones made by the thyroid gland, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism. Too much (as in hyperthyroidism) can cause weight loss, tremors, anxiety, or heart issues.
Thyroid Hormone
Hormones made by the thyroid gland, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism. Too much (as in hyperthyroidism) can cause weight loss, tremors, anxiety, or heart issues.
Thyroid Hormone
Hormones made by the thyroid gland, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism. Too much (as in hyperthyroidism) can cause weight loss, tremors, anxiety, or heart issues.
Tolerance (Drug/Alcohol)
When a person needs higher doses of a substance to get the same effect due to repeated use. It can involve both body and brain adaptations and plays a role in addiction.
Tolerance (Drug/Alcohol)
When a person needs higher doses of a substance to get the same effect due to repeated use. It can involve both body and brain adaptations and plays a role in addiction.
Tolerance (Drug/Alcohol)
When a person needs higher doses of a substance to get the same effect due to repeated use. It can involve both body and brain adaptations and plays a role in addiction.
Tunnel Vision
Loss of peripheral (side) vision while central vision remains clear. It can result from eye conditions like glaucoma or appear as a dissociative symptom during high stress or trauma (in rare cases).
Tunnel Vision
Loss of peripheral (side) vision while central vision remains clear. It can result from eye conditions like glaucoma or appear as a dissociative symptom during high stress or trauma (in rare cases).
Tunnel Vision
Loss of peripheral (side) vision while central vision remains clear. It can result from eye conditions like glaucoma or appear as a dissociative symptom during high stress or trauma (in rare cases).
U
Urge
A strong, often uncomfortable impulse to act or engage in a behavior. Can be part of OCD, tics, or addiction-related conditions.
Urge
A strong, often uncomfortable impulse to act or engage in a behavior. Can be part of OCD, tics, or addiction-related conditions.
Urge
A strong, often uncomfortable impulse to act or engage in a behavior. Can be part of OCD, tics, or addiction-related conditions.
V
Victimology
The study of people who experience harm or trauma due to violence, abuse, or neglect. It explores how and why individuals are targeted, the impact of the trauma, the support they need to recover, and what systems of justice or compensation may help in healing.
Victimology
The study of people who experience harm or trauma due to violence, abuse, or neglect. It explores how and why individuals are targeted, the impact of the trauma, the support they need to recover, and what systems of justice or compensation may help in healing.
Victimology
The study of people who experience harm or trauma due to violence, abuse, or neglect. It explores how and why individuals are targeted, the impact of the trauma, the support they need to recover, and what systems of justice or compensation may help in healing.
Visual Processing Disorder
A neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets visual information. Not a problem with eyesight, but with recognizing, organizing, or remembering what is seen. Can impact learning, reading, and daily function.
Visual Processing Disorder
A neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets visual information. Not a problem with eyesight, but with recognizing, organizing, or remembering what is seen. Can impact learning, reading, and daily function.
Visual Processing Disorder
A neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets visual information. Not a problem with eyesight, but with recognizing, organizing, or remembering what is seen. Can impact learning, reading, and daily function.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A lack of vitamin B12 that can affect both the body and brain. Neurological symptoms may include numbness, tingling, memory problems, irritability, and—if severe or untreated—confusion or even dementia. Common in people with absorption issues, poor diet, or certain medical conditions.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A lack of vitamin B12 that can affect both the body and brain. Neurological symptoms may include numbness, tingling, memory problems, irritability, and—if severe or untreated—confusion or even dementia. Common in people with absorption issues, poor diet, or certain medical conditions.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A lack of vitamin B12 that can affect both the body and brain. Neurological symptoms may include numbness, tingling, memory problems, irritability, and—if severe or untreated—confusion or even dementia. Common in people with absorption issues, poor diet, or certain medical conditions.
Volatile solvent use Disorder
Volatile solvent use disorder refers to mental and behavioral issues caused by inhaling substances like glue, paint thinner, gasoline, or aerosol sprays. These substances produce a quick high but are toxic to the brain, heart, liver, and nerves. Symptoms include dizziness, slurred speech, poor coordination, aggression, and euphoria. Repeated use can lead to long-term brain damage, nerve injury, or sudden death due to heart failure or lack of oxygen.
Volatile solvent use Disorder
Volatile solvent use disorder refers to mental and behavioral issues caused by inhaling substances like glue, paint thinner, gasoline, or aerosol sprays. These substances produce a quick high but are toxic to the brain, heart, liver, and nerves. Symptoms include dizziness, slurred speech, poor coordination, aggression, and euphoria. Repeated use can lead to long-term brain damage, nerve injury, or sudden death due to heart failure or lack of oxygen.
Volatile solvent use Disorder
Volatile solvent use disorder refers to mental and behavioral issues caused by inhaling substances like glue, paint thinner, gasoline, or aerosol sprays. These substances produce a quick high but are toxic to the brain, heart, liver, and nerves. Symptoms include dizziness, slurred speech, poor coordination, aggression, and euphoria. Repeated use can lead to long-term brain damage, nerve injury, or sudden death due to heart failure or lack of oxygen.
W
Wandering (in dementia)
A behavioral symptom of dementia, especially in Alzheimer’s disease. It involves aimless or goal-directed locomotion that may put the individual at risk due to disorientation or confusion.
Wandering (in dementia)
A behavioral symptom of dementia, especially in Alzheimer’s disease. It involves aimless or goal-directed locomotion that may put the individual at risk due to disorientation or confusion.
Wandering (in dementia)
A behavioral symptom of dementia, especially in Alzheimer’s disease. It involves aimless or goal-directed locomotion that may put the individual at risk due to disorientation or confusion.
Wernicke’s Aphasia
A language disorder marked by impaired comprehension of spoken and written language, despite fluent speech production. Individuals often speak in long, grammatically correct sentences that lack meaning or include invented or inappropriate words. They may be unaware of their communication difficulties.
Wernicke’s Aphasia
A language disorder marked by impaired comprehension of spoken and written language, despite fluent speech production. Individuals often speak in long, grammatically correct sentences that lack meaning or include invented or inappropriate words. They may be unaware of their communication difficulties.
Wernicke’s Aphasia
A language disorder marked by impaired comprehension of spoken and written language, despite fluent speech production. Individuals often speak in long, grammatically correct sentences that lack meaning or include invented or inappropriate words. They may be unaware of their communication difficulties.
Wernicke encephalopathy
An acute neurological condition caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, most often related to chronic alcohol use. Core symptoms include confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia (eye movement abnormalities). Without immediate thiamine treatment, it may progress to Korsakoff syndrome—a chronic condition marked by severe memory impairment and confabulation.
Wernicke encephalopathy
An acute neurological condition caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, most often related to chronic alcohol use. Core symptoms include confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia (eye movement abnormalities). Without immediate thiamine treatment, it may progress to Korsakoff syndrome—a chronic condition marked by severe memory impairment and confabulation.
Wernicke encephalopathy
An acute neurological condition caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, most often related to chronic alcohol use. Core symptoms include confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia (eye movement abnormalities). Without immediate thiamine treatment, it may progress to Korsakoff syndrome—a chronic condition marked by severe memory impairment and confabulation.
Withdrawal state
It refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms that emerge after reducing or stopping a substance following prolonged use. Symptoms vary by substance and may include anxiety, tremors, seizures, insomnia, and, in severe cases, delirium (e.g., delirium tremens in alcohol withdrawal).
Withdrawal state
It refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms that emerge after reducing or stopping a substance following prolonged use. Symptoms vary by substance and may include anxiety, tremors, seizures, insomnia, and, in severe cases, delirium (e.g., delirium tremens in alcohol withdrawal).
Withdrawal state
It refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms that emerge after reducing or stopping a substance following prolonged use. Symptoms vary by substance and may include anxiety, tremors, seizures, insomnia, and, in severe cases, delirium (e.g., delirium tremens in alcohol withdrawal).
P
Panic Disorder
A mental health condition marked by sudden, unpredictable episodes of intense fear or discomfort (panic attacks). Symptoms may include heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, breathlessness, or a sense of unreality. These attacks are not tied to specific situations and may come with a fear of dying or losing control.
Paralysis
The loss of voluntary muscle movement due to a problem in the nervous system or muscles. It can result from physical injury, neurological conditions, or functional (non-structural) causes.
Paranoia
A rare and chronic mental condition involving persistent, well-structured delusions—often about persecution, grandeur, or bodily dysfunction—without the disorganized thinking or hallucinations seen in other psychoses.
Parkinson’s Disease
A progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of brain cells in areas controlling movement, especially the substantia nigra. Common symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements (bradykinesia), and balance issues. It can also be drug-induced or related to other brain conditions.
Personality and Behaviour Disorder
Long-term patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that deviate significantly from cultural expectations and affect personal, social, or occupational functioning. This includes conditions like personality disorders, impulse control issues, and certain behavioural or identity-related difficulties.
Postpartum Anxiety (PPA)
Marked by excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, and racing thoughts, often focused on the baby’s health or safety. Unlike PPD, the core symptom is anxiety rather than low mood. PPA can coexist with depression and often includes physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or sleep disturbance.
Postpartum Depression (PPD)
A serious mood disorder that can affect individuals after childbirth. More than “baby blues,” PPD involves persistent sadness, fatigue, guilt, difficulty bonding with the baby, and changes in sleep or appetite. It can emerge within weeks to months after delivery and requires professional support.
Q
Quetelet Body Mass Index (BMI)
An anthropometric index calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). Proposed by Adolphe Quetelet in the 19th century, it is still widely used today to assess weight relative to height, especially in screening for underweight or overweight conditions. It can be a reference point in understanding patterns in eating disorders, but does not diagnose them.
Quality of Life (QoL)
A broad term used to describe an individual’s overall well-being across physical, emotional, social, and functional areas of life. In mental health, QoL assessments help evaluate how psychological conditions or treatments impact a person’s day-to-day experience — beyond just symptoms — including factors like relationships, work, independence, and emotional resilience.
R
Reactive Psychosis
A brief and intense mental health episode triggered by a major external stressor (like a loss or trauma). Symptoms often mirror the nature of the triggering event and may involve confusion, depression, or delusions. Recovery usually begins once the stressor eases, but not always.
Reading Disorder, Specific
A developmental condition that significantly impairs reading skills despite normal intelligence and adequate schooling. It may affect reading comprehension, fluency, or word recognition. Spelling issues and early language delays are often linked.
Rehabilitation
An approach that combines medical, emotional, educational, and vocational support to help individuals with disabilities regain the highest possible level of independence and functioning.
REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep)
A stage of sleep that recurs roughly every 90 minutes, marked by quick eye movements, vivid dreaming, and changes in breathing, heart rate, and brain activity. REM sleep supports emotional regulation, memory, and learning. It's also known as paradoxical sleep because the brain is active while the body remains still.
Restless Legs Syndrome
A condition causing uncomfortable leg sensations during rest or drowsiness, relieved only by movement. Often worse at night, it can be linked to genetics or occur alongside nighttime muscle jerks (nocturnal myoclonus).
S
Schizoaffective Disorder
A mental health condition where symptoms of both schizophrenia (like hallucinations or delusions) and mood disorders (like depression or mania) occur during the same episode. It can be depressive, manic, or mixed, depending on the dominant mood symptoms.
Schizophrenia
A long-term mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It may involve hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and reduced emotional expression. People often retain clear consciousness and intellect, though some cognitive decline can occur over time. Symptoms may come and go or persist.
Sedative
A type of medication or substance that calms the nervous system. It reduces anxiety or agitation and can cause sleep in higher doses.
Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
More than age-appropriate clinginess, SAD involves intense fear or distress about separation from major attachment figures. While common in children, it can persist into adolescence or adulthood. Symptoms may include refusal to sleep alone, nightmares about separation, or physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomachaches) when apart.
Sleepwalking (Somnambulism)
A condition that happens during deep non-REM sleep, usually in the first third of the night. A person may sit up, walk around, or perform routine actions with little awareness or response to their surroundings. Movements may seem clumsy or automatic, and there’s often no memory of the episode upon waking. It is most common in children but can occur at any age.
Social Anxiety Disorder
A lasting fear of embarrassment or judgment in social or performance situations. It often starts in adolescence and can lead to intense anxiety, physical symptoms (like blushing or sweating), and avoidance of social settings.
Stress Reaction, acute
A short-term reaction to an extreme physical or emotional stressor (like an accident or trauma). Symptoms may include confusion, anxiety, withdrawal, or agitation and usually resolve within a few days. It’s not considered a long-term mental illness.
T
Tension Headache
A common type of headache marked by dull, aching pain or pressure, often described as a tight band around the head. Can be short-lived due to stress or become chronic, especially with anxiety or depression.
Thought Echo
A symptom where a person hears their own thoughts repeated internally, often moments after thinking them. It may feel intrusive or altered and is typically linked to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
Thyroid Hormone
Hormones made by the thyroid gland, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism. Too much (as in hyperthyroidism) can cause weight loss, tremors, anxiety, or heart issues.
Tolerance (Drug/Alcohol)
When a person needs higher doses of a substance to get the same effect due to repeated use. It can involve both body and brain adaptations and plays a role in addiction.
Tunnel Vision
Loss of peripheral (side) vision while central vision remains clear. It can result from eye conditions like glaucoma or appear as a dissociative symptom during high stress or trauma (in rare cases).
U
Urge
A strong, often uncomfortable impulse to act or engage in a behavior. Can be part of OCD, tics, or addiction-related conditions.
V
Victimology
The study of people who experience harm or trauma due to violence, abuse, or neglect. It explores how and why individuals are targeted, the impact of the trauma, the support they need to recover, and what systems of justice or compensation may help in healing.
Visual Processing Disorder
A neurological condition affecting how the brain interprets visual information. Not a problem with eyesight, but with recognizing, organizing, or remembering what is seen. Can impact learning, reading, and daily function.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
A lack of vitamin B12 that can affect both the body and brain. Neurological symptoms may include numbness, tingling, memory problems, irritability, and—if severe or untreated—confusion or even dementia. Common in people with absorption issues, poor diet, or certain medical conditions.
Volatile solvent use Disorder
Volatile solvent use disorder refers to mental and behavioral issues caused by inhaling substances like glue, paint thinner, gasoline, or aerosol sprays. These substances produce a quick high but are toxic to the brain, heart, liver, and nerves. Symptoms include dizziness, slurred speech, poor coordination, aggression, and euphoria. Repeated use can lead to long-term brain damage, nerve injury, or sudden death due to heart failure or lack of oxygen.
W
Wandering (in dementia)
A behavioral symptom of dementia, especially in Alzheimer’s disease. It involves aimless or goal-directed locomotion that may put the individual at risk due to disorientation or confusion.
Wernicke’s Aphasia
A language disorder marked by impaired comprehension of spoken and written language, despite fluent speech production. Individuals often speak in long, grammatically correct sentences that lack meaning or include invented or inappropriate words. They may be unaware of their communication difficulties.
Wernicke encephalopathy
An acute neurological condition caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, most often related to chronic alcohol use. Core symptoms include confusion, ataxia, and ophthalmoplegia (eye movement abnormalities). Without immediate thiamine treatment, it may progress to Korsakoff syndrome—a chronic condition marked by severe memory impairment and confabulation.
Withdrawal state
It refers to a group of physical and psychological symptoms that emerge after reducing or stopping a substance following prolonged use. Symptoms vary by substance and may include anxiety, tremors, seizures, insomnia, and, in severe cases, delirium (e.g., delirium tremens in alcohol withdrawal).
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