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Mental Health Glossary
This glossary provides simple explanations of common mental health conditions and terms that may be referenced throughout our website and services.
Anxiety:
A natural response to stress or perceived danger that causes feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear. When anxiety becomes intense, persistent, or interferes with daily life, it may be considered an anxiety disorder.
Bipolar Disorder:
A mental health condition characterized by significant mood changes that alternate between periods of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and periods of depression.
Depression:
A common mental health condition involving persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. Severe depression can interfere with daily functioning and relationships.
Psychosis:
A condition that affects how a person perceives reality. It may include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not present) or delusions (strong beliefs that are not based in reality).
Schizophrenia:
A serious mental health disorder that affects thinking, perception, emotions, and behavior. People with schizophrenia may experience hallucinations, delusions, and difficulty organizing thoughts.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
A condition that may develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and emotional distress.
Substance Use Disorder:
A condition where the repeated use of alcohol or drugs leads to health problems, difficulty controlling use, and disruption to work, relationships, or daily life.
Trauma:
A psychological response to deeply distressing or disturbing experiences such as violence, abuse, accidents, or natural disasters.
Mental Health:
Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being and their ability to cope with life’s stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community.
Severe Mental Illness (SMI):
A term used for mental health conditions that significantly interfere with a person’s ability to function in daily life and often require specialized treatment or support.
Psychiatrist:
A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, including prescribing medication and overseeing treatment plans.
Psychologist:
A mental health professional trained in psychological assessment and therapy who helps individuals manage emotional and behavioral challenges.
Psychotherapy (Talking Therapy):
A structured conversation with a trained therapist that helps individuals understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and develop healthier coping strategies.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):
A type of psychotherapy that helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional difficulties.
Psychiatric Rehabilitation:
A recovery-focused approach that helps individuals living with mental illness develop skills, independence, and community participation.
Residential Treatment:
A structured mental health program where individuals live at a treatment facility and receive therapy, medical support, and rehabilitation services in a supportive environment.