Mental Illness Study Guide

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on mental illness topics to aid in exam preparation.

Lithium

A mood stabilizer used for bipolar disorder, especially during manic episodes.

Major Depressive Disorder

Characterized by persistent depressed mood lasting at least two weeks, along with low energy and feelings of hopelessness.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Involves recurring intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) to reduce anxiety.

Suicide

The act of self-harm with intent to die, often linked to mental health disorders.

Alzheimer’s Disease

The most common type of dementia, leading to gradual and irreversible memory loss.

Dementia

A chronic progressive loss of memory and reasoning ability, characterized by aphasia, apraxia, and agnosia.

Delirium

An acute, reversible confusion with sudden onset, often caused by infection or medication.

Anxiety

Feelings of uneasiness often accompanied by physical symptoms like increased heart rate.

Panic Disorder

Sudden episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms like chest pain and dizziness.

Bipolar Disorder

A mental health condition marked by alternating manic and depressive episodes.

Phobia

Irrational fear of specific situations or objects leading to avoidance behavior.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing traumatic events.

ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

A treatment for severe depression that induces a brief seizure to balance neurotransmitters.

Antidepressants

Medications used to improve mood by balancing brain chemicals, often requiring weeks to take effect.

Mental Health Status Exam

An assessment tool to evaluate a patient's appearance, mood, thought process, and cognition.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Chronic excessive worry lasting for six months or longer, often treated with therapy and medications.

Apraxia

Inability to perform purposeful movements despite having normal motor abilities, commonly seen in dementia.

Sundowning Syndrome

Evening confusion and agitation in dementia patients, requiring a calm environment for safety.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Depression that occurs during certain seasons, often triggered by reduced sunlight.

Discharge Planning for Anxiety

Strategies to help patients manage anxiety after leaving care, focusing on coping and relaxation techniques.

Discharge Planning for Depression

Plans that emphasize medication compliance, follow-up appointments, and family support for depressed patients.