Lesson Two - Biases and Stereotypes of Mental Health
Key Terms in Mental Health (con't)
Now that we have made the distinction between mental health and mental illness, let’s move onto other fundamental terms that are related to mental health. This list is not comprehensive but is meant to give you a sense of the diversity of mental health. If you need to look up individual terms, make sure to check out the glossary!
Click each collapsible row for more information.
Is an eating disorder that involves periodic episodes of overeating that are followed by episodes of “purging” the food, such as induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, and excessive exercising.
Is a disorder characterized by deliberate weight loss. This disorder is mainly characterized by refusing to eat and maintain a normal body weight, an abnormal fear of gaining weight, and a troubled perception of body image.
Is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by impaired social interactions as well as verbal and non-verbal communication.
Is a type of mood disorder where symptoms change from mania to depression and back again.
Is a developmental disability that is characterized by mild to profound constraints concerning cognitive functioning and ability to adapt.
Is excessive anxiety and worrying about a range of topics that is accompanied by common anxiety symptoms.
Is a chemical in the body that sends messages to control or regulate the activity of certain cells or organs in the body.
Refers to any intervention that is offered in a public, private, outpatient, or inpatient setting in order to maintain or treat the mental health of an individual or group.
Is a disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts that motivate a person to complete neutralizing rituals or compulsions. The compulsions are recognized as unreasonable by the individual, and can be quite time-consuming and disruptive to the person’s
life.
Is a disorder that may develop when an individual is directly or indirectly involved in a traumatic event where the person believes that there is a safety threat to themselves.
Is a psychotic disorder that is characterized by disturbances in thinking, emotions, and behaviour. The main symptoms are hallucinations and delusions.
All definitions on page - American Psychological Association (APA)
To see the complete dictionary that the American Psychological Association has for mental illnesses, visit the website.