Mental Health and Illness Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to mental health and illness based on the lecture notes.

Mental Health

Refers to mental wellness; the emotional and psychological well-being of an individual.

Major Depressive Disorder

A mental illness characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.

Anxiety Disorders

A group of mental illnesses that include disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

Diagnose

To identify a disease or condition by examining symptoms and clinical signs.

Impairment

A reduction in the ability to perform daily activities due to mental health symptoms.

Neurotransmitter

Chemicals in the brain that transmit signals between neurons, influencing mood and behavior.

Schizophrenia

A severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, and sense of self.

DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)

A manual used by healthcare professionals to diagnose mental disorders based on specific criteria.

Therapeutic Community

A treatment approach for people with severe mental illness that emphasizes social interaction and mutual support.

Postpartum Depression

A type of mood disorder associated with childbirth that affects both sexes, primarily characterized by feelings of extreme sadness.

Dual Diagnosis

The occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the same individual.

Community Mental Health

A model of mental health care in which treatment is provided on an outpatient basis rather than in institutional settings.

Stigmatization

The negative perception or discrimination of an individual based on a particular characteristic, such as mental illness.

Crisis Intervention

Immediate and short-term psychological care aimed at assisting individuals in a crisis.

Asylum

Historically, a refuge or safe place for people with mental illness; often associated with institutional care.

Psychotropic Medications

Medications used to manage psychiatric disorders and symptoms.

Economic Burden of Mental Illness

The high financial cost of mental illnesses, which surpasses that of many physical health conditions.

Psychiatric Rehabilitation

Programs designed to help individuals with severe mental illness recover and lead fulfilling lives.

Impairment

Limitations in daily functioning resulting from mental health issues.