Mental health glossary
Mental health terms, explained plainly
254 terms — diagnoses, therapy approaches, medications and the words that come up in a session, written without jargon. Look up anything you heard from a therapist, read on a prescription or saw in a report.
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AbreactionAbreaction is a psychoanalytic concept wherein a person re-experiences a previously repressed traumatic event, releasing pent-up emotions linked to that experience.Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)Acute Stress Disorder is an anxiety condition that develops shortly after a traumatic event.AddictionAddiction is a chronic condition characterized by compulsive substance use or engagement in behaviors (e.g., gambling) despite harmful consequences.Adjustment DisorderAdjustment Disorder is a stress-related condition where emotional or behavioral symptoms arise in response to a significant life change or stressor (e.g., divorce, job loss).Adrenal Fatigue“Adrenal Fatigue” is an informal term suggesting that chronic stress leads to the overuse and eventual “burnout” of adrenal glands.AffirmationsAffirmations are positive, motivational statements used to challenge negative thought patterns and foster a supportive internal dialogue.AgoraphobiaAgoraphobia is an anxiety disorder involving intense fear and avoidance of situations or places where escape might be difficult, or help might not be available, should an anxiety attack occur.AlexithymiaAlexithymia means having trouble recognising your own feelings and putting them into words.AmbivalenceAmbivalence means having mixed or opposite feelings about the same person, choice or situation at once: loving and resenting a parent, or wanting a change and dreading it.Anger ManagementAnger Management comprises strategies and techniques designed to control the emotional and physiological responses to anger triggers.AnhedoniaAnhedonia means losing the ability to enjoy things you used to enjoy, or to look forward to them.Anorexia NervosaAnorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder marked by extremely restricted food intake, intense fear of weight gain, and a distorted body image.AntidepressantsAntidepressants are a broad class of medications used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.AntipsychoticsAntipsychotics are medications primarily prescribed to manage psychosis, including symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.AnxietyAnxiety is a feeling of unease, worry or fear about something that might go wrong.Art TherapyArt Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative processes, such as painting, drawing, or sculpting, to help individuals express emotions, explore experiences, and develop self-awareness in…Asperger SyndromeAsperger Syndrome historically referred to a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) characterized by difficulties with social interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors—often…Assertiveness TrainingAssertiveness Training is a therapeutic and personal development approach focusing on helping individuals communicate their feelings, needs, and rights openly and respectfully without resorting to…Attachment TheoryAttachment Theory examines how the bond (attachment) formed between an infant and a primary caregiver influences a person’s emotional development and relationships throughout life.Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests.Avoidant Personality DisorderAvoidant Personality Disorder is characterized by social inhibition, extreme sensitivity to negative evaluation, and a pervasive sense of inadequacy.
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Behavior TherapyBehavior Therapy is a broad term for types of therapeutic approaches that focus on modifying observable behaviors, rather than delving deeply into unconscious processes.BenzodiazepinesBenzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs primarily used for their sedative, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle-relaxant properties.BereavementBereavement is the period of sadness after someone close to you dies.Binge Eating Disorder (BED)Binge Eating Disorder involves recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food in a short period, accompanied by feelings of loss of control, shame, or guilt afterward.BiofeedbackBiofeedback is a technique in which individuals learn to influence physiological processes that are typically involuntary, such as heart rate, muscle tension, and skin temperature.Bipolar DisorderBipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by manic (or hypomanic) episodes —periods of elevated mood, high energy, or irritability—and depressive episodes with low mood, fatigue, and…Black TaxBlack tax is the ongoing financial support that a working Nigerian gives to parents, siblings and wider family: school fees, rent, medical bills, ceremonies and emergencies.Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a mental health condition in which a person becomes excessively preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance.Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition marked by intense, fast-changing emotions.Brief TherapyBrief Therapy refers to time-limited psychotherapy approaches designed to produce positive change in fewer sessions than traditional therapies.Bulimia NervosaBulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurring episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, fasting, excessive exercise, or misuse of…BurnoutBurnout is exhaustion that comes from long-term stress at work that hasn’t been managed.
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Caffeine-Induced AnxietyCaffeine-Induced Anxiety refers to heightened nervousness, restlessness, or panic-like symptoms triggered by excessive caffeine intake.CatatoniaCatatonia is a psychomotor disturbance that can manifest as extreme motor immobility (e.g., stupor) or excessive motor activity that appears purposeless.Chronic StressChronic Stress is the prolonged and constant feeling of stress that can stem from ongoing pressures or hardships—such as challenging work conditions, financial strain, or persistent family conflict.Clinical PsychologyClinical Psychology is a branch of psychology focused on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.CodeineCodeine is an opioid found in some prescription cough syrups and painkillers.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a structured talking therapy that helps you change how you think and act.Compassion FatigueCompassion Fatigue, also known as Secondary Traumatic Stress, occurs when caregivers or professionals (e.g., therapists, nurses, social workers) become emotionally and physically exhausted due to…CompulsionA compulsion is a repeated action or mental act that a person feels driven to do, usually to ease anxiety.Conduct DisorderConduct Disorder is a persistent pattern of violating societal norms and the rights of others.CounselingCounselling is a professional relationship in which a trained counsellor helps you work through a personal problem, a decision or a change, in confidence.Crisis InterventionCrisis Intervention involves urgent, short-term psychological care aimed at stabilizing and supporting individuals in acute distress (e.g., suicidal ideation, severe panic attacks, or trauma).CyclothymiaCyclothymia (Cyclothymic Disorder) is a milder yet chronic mood disorder characterized by fluctuations between low-level depressive symptoms and hypomanic-like symptoms that don’t meet the full…
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DeliriumDelirium is a sudden change in how the brain is working that causes confusion and poor attention.DeliveranceDeliverance is a form of prayer in Pentecostal and charismatic churches, meant to free a person from spiritual affliction such as an evil spirit or a curse.Delusional DisorderDelusional Disorder is characterized by one or more persistent delusions (fixed false beliefs) lasting at least one month, without other significant psychotic symptoms commonly seen in schizophrenia…DementiaDementia is a group of symptoms caused by diseases that damage the brain, which steadily worsen memory, thinking, communication and the ability to manage daily life.Dependent Personality DisorderDependent Personality Disorder involves a pervasive psychological dependence on others.Depersonalization/DerealizationDepersonalization/Derealization involves persistent or recurrent feelings of detachment.DepressionDepression (Major Depressive Disorder) is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest (anhedonia), and a range of cognitive and physical symptoms.Dialectical Behavior TherapyDialectical Behavior Therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Dr.DisassociationDisassociation (often spelled dissociation ) is a mental process where a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity.Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a mental health condition in which a person’s sense of self is divided between two or more distinct identities, sometimes called alters, with gaps in memory…Drug AbuseDrug Abuse (also referred to as Substance Abuse) involves the improper or hazardous use of legal or illegal substances (e.g., prescription medications, illicit drugs, alcohol) that leads to…DysthymiaDysthymia—currently referred to in the DSM-5 as Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) —is a chronic form of depression characterized by a consistently low mood that lasts for at least two years in…
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Eating DisordersEating Disorders are serious conditions characterized by persistent disturbances in eating behavior, body image, and/or weight regulation.Electroconvulsive TherapyElectroconvulsive Therapy is a medical procedure used to treat severe psychiatric conditions—most commonly severe depression—by inducing controlled seizures via electric currents passed through the…Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)Emotion-Focused Therapy is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals become aware of, regulate, and transform distressing emotional states.Emotional AbuseEmotional Abuse involves the systematic use of words and behaviors to manipulate, control, or belittle another person’s sense of self-worth or emotional well-being.Emotional ExhaustionEmotional Exhaustion is a state of feeling overwhelmed and drained by prolonged stress—often stemming from work (burnout), caregiving roles, or chronic interpersonal conflict.Emotional VentingEmotional venting means letting out strong feelings, such as anger, frustration or sadness, by talking, crying or writing, to relieve the pressure.EmpathyEmpathy is the ability to understand what another person is feeling and to share some of that feeling, while knowing it’s theirs and not yours.EncopresisEncopresis is a condition in which a child (generally older than 4) repeatedly defecates in inappropriate places (e.g., clothing, floor).EnuresisEnuresis refers to repeated involuntary or intentional urination in inappropriate places (e.g., clothing, bed) beyond the developmental age at which bladder control is expected (usually age 5 or 6…Exposure TherapyExposure Therapy is a form of behavioral therapy designed to help individuals face and overcome anxiety or fear by gradually exposing them to the feared object, situation, or memory in a safe and…Expressive Arts TherapyExpressive Arts Therapy uses creative modalities—such as art, music, dance/movement, drama, and writing—to facilitate emotional expression, self-discovery, and personal growth.Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)EMDR is a psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro, primarily used to help individuals heal from traumatic experiences, PTSD, and other distressing life events.
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Family Systems TheoryFamily Systems Theory, developed largely by Murray Bowen, views the family as an interconnected emotional unit.Family TherapyFamily therapy is a type of talking therapy that works with the relationships in a family, not just one person.FearFear is the natural alarm your mind and body raise when you sense a danger that’s here now.FlashbacksFlashbacks are vivid, often distressing, involuntary re-experiences of past traumatic events.Forensic PsychologyForensic Psychology applies psychological principles to legal matters, including criminal investigation, courtroom proceedings, and offender rehabilitation.Fugue StateA fugue state is a rare episode of sudden travel or wandering away from home, with lost memory of who you are.
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Gambling AddictionGambling Addiction, also known as Gambling Disorder, is characterized by the compulsive urge to gamble despite harmful consequences, such as financial loss, relationship problems, and emotional…Gender DysphoriaGender Dysphoria is the significant distress or discomfort a person may experience when their gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is long-lasting, hard-to-control worry about many everyday things at once.GenogramA Genogram is a graphical representation of a family tree that includes detailed information about relationships, medical history, and psychosocial dynamics across multiple generations.Grief CounselingGrief Counseling is a form of therapy designed to help individuals cope with the emotional, physical, social, and cognitive responses to loss—commonly the death of a loved one, but it can also apply…Group TherapyGroup Therapy involves a therapist (or co-therapists) working with multiple individuals simultaneously in a structured setting.Guided ImageryGuided Imagery is a relaxation and mental rehearsal technique where individuals use mental images and sensory details to evoke a calm, focused state or to visualize achieving specific goals.GuiltGuilt is the uncomfortable feeling that you’ve done something wrong or let someone down, judged by your own standards.
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HallucinationsHallucinations are sensory experiences—auditory, visual, tactile, olfactory, or gustatory—that appear real but are not actually present in the environment.HikikomoriHikikomori is a Japanese term describing severe social withdrawal, where individuals—often adolescents or young adults—confine themselves to their homes (or even a single room) for months or years…Hoarding DisorderHoarding Disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, leading to cluttered living spaces that compromise their intended use.Holistic TherapyHolistic Therapy (or Holistic Psychotherapy) takes a whole-person approach to treatment, integrating the mind, body, and spirit.HopeHope is the belief that your future can be better and that you can play a part in getting there.Hospice CareHospice Care provides comfort-focused support to individuals with terminal illnesses (and their families), typically when curative treatments are no longer pursued.Humanistic PsychologyHumanistic Psychology is an approach that focuses on individual potential, personal growth, and self-actualization.HypnotherapyHypnotherapy uses guided relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness (hypnosis).Hypochondriasis (Illness Anxiety Disorder)Hypochondriasis, now more commonly referred to in DSM-5 as Illness Anxiety Disorder (or sometimes Somatic Symptom Disorder if physical symptoms are prominent), is characterized by excessive worry…HypomaniaHypomania is a milder form of mania characterized by elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and heightened activity levels.
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Illness Anxiety DisorderIllness Anxiety Disorder (formerly known as Hypochondriasis in older diagnostic criteria) involves excessive worry or fear of having a serious illness.Impulse Control DisorderImpulse Control Disorder encompasses conditions where individuals struggle to resist urges or impulses that can harm themselves or others.Incest TraumaIncest Trauma refers to the profound psychological and emotional damage resulting from sexual abuse by a family member or close relative.Individual TherapyIndividual Therapy (or Individual Counseling) is a one-on-one therapeutic setting where a mental health professional (e.g., psychologist, counselor) works directly with a client to explore feelings…InsomniaInsomnia is regular trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or waking too early, so that you feel tired, irritable or foggy during the day.Interpersonal TherapyInterpersonal Therapy (IPT) is a brief, structured psychotherapy focusing on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning to help alleviate distress from conditions like depression or…InterventionIn mental health, an intervention is any planned action meant to change a problem: a course of therapy, help in a crisis, a short talk about drinking, or a programme for a whole school.IntrospectionIntrospection is looking inward: noticing and examining your own thoughts, feelings and motives, as they happen or soon after.
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JapaJapa is Nigerian slang for leaving the country for work, study or safety.Job BurnoutJob Burnout is a specific form of work-related stress, characterized by physical or emotional exhaustion, cynicism or detachment from the job, and a feeling of reduced professional efficacy.Johari WindowThe Johari Window is a communication model created by Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham, used to enhance self-awareness and interpersonal understanding.JournalingJournaling is writing down your thoughts, feelings and experiences, usually regularly and just for yourself.Judgment TherapyWhile not a widely recognized formal modality, “Judgment Therapy” may refer to therapeutic techniques that address the impact of harsh self-judgment or judgment towards others.Just-World HypothesisThe Just-World Hypothesis is a cognitive bias or belief that the world is inherently fair—i.e., “good things happen to good people and bad things happen to bad people.” While it can provide a sense…
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KleptomaniaKleptomania is a rare mental health condition in which a person repeatedly fails to resist urges to steal things they don’t need.Korsakoff SyndromeKorsakoff Syndrome (often associated with Wernicke–Korsakoff Syndrome) is a chronic memory disorder caused by severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, frequently tied to long-term alcohol misuse.Kübler-Ross ModelThe Kübler-Ross Model, also known as the Five Stages of Grief, was introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross to describe the emotional responses people may experience after a significant loss…
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Lability (Emotional Lability)Emotional Lability, or mood lability, refers to rapid, often exaggerated changes in mood where emotions shift from one state to another more quickly than what most consider typical.Learned HelplessnessLearned Helplessness is a psychological state where an individual, after experiencing repeated adverse events perceived as uncontrollable, comes to believe they are powerless to change or improve…Light TherapyLight Therapy (or Phototherapy) involves exposure to artificial light—commonly a light box emitting bright, full-spectrum light—to regulate circadian rhythms and combat mood-related symptoms.LithiumLithium is a mood-stabilizing medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder and, less frequently, certain forms of depression.LogotherapyLogotherapy, founded by Viktor E. Frankl, is an existential approach that posits a “will to meaning”—the drive to find purpose in life—as a primary motivational force.LonelinessLoneliness is the distressing feeling that arises when there is a perceived gap between one’s desired social connections and one’s actual level or quality of social interaction.Low Self-EsteemLow self-esteem is a lasting, mostly negative opinion of yourself: a sense that you are not good enough, not likeable or less capable than other people.Lucid DreamingLucid Dreaming occurs when a person becomes aware that they are dreaming, often gaining some control over the dream narrative, characters, or environment.LumateperoneLumateperone (brand name Caplyta) is an atypical antipsychotic medication approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar depression.
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Major Depressive DisorderMajor Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder marked by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest (anhedonia), and a range of cognitive and physical symptoms that impair daily functioning.Maladaptive BehaviorMaladaptive Behavior refers to actions or tendencies that inhibit a person’s ability to adjust healthily to particular situations.MalingeringMalingering means deliberately faking or exaggerating physical or psychological symptoms to get an outside reward, such as money, time off work or a lighter outcome in a court case.ManiaMania is a state of abnormally elevated or irritable mood, arousal, and heightened energy/activity levels.Medical PsychologyMedical Psychology applies psychological principles to the understanding and treatment of physical health conditions.Mental Health StigmaMental Health Stigma is the negative attitude or discrimination toward individuals with mental health conditions.MindfulnessMindfulness is the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental, moment-to-moment awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment.Mkpuru MmiriMkpuru mmiri is the Igbo name, literally “seed of water”, for crystal methamphetamine, a powerful stimulant.Mood StabilizersMood Stabilizers are medications primarily used to treat mood fluctuations in Bipolar Disorder and sometimes in certain types of depression.Motivational InterviewingMotivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered counseling style that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about behavioral changes (e.g., substance use, diet/exercise habits).Multifactorial ModelThe Multifactorial Model in mental health posits that psychological conditions and behaviors result from the interplay of multiple factors—biological (e.g., genetics, neurochemistry), psychological…Munchausen SyndromeMunchausen Syndrome (also known as Factitious Disorder Imposed on Self ) is a psychological condition in which an individual repeatedly acts as if they have a physical or mental illness by…Music TherapyMusic Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship.
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Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a lasting pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration and low empathy.NarcolepsyNarcolepsy is a rare, long-term brain condition in which the brain can’t control sleeping and waking normally.NDLEANDLEA stands for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria’s federal agency for drug control.Negative Automatic ThoughtsNegative Automatic Thoughts are the involuntary, reflexive beliefs and self-statements that occur in response to certain situations—often colored by cognitive distortions (e.g., “I’m a failure,”…NeurofeedbackNeurofeedback (also called EEG Biofeedback) is a therapeutic technique in which individuals learn to self-regulate their brain activity by receiving real-time feedback via electroencephalogram (EEG).NeuropsychologyNeuropsychology is the study of the relationship between brain function and behavior.NeuroticismNeuroticism is a personality trait characterized by a tendency to experience negative emotions—such as anxiety, fear, worry, anger, frustration—more intensely and frequently than the average person.Night TerrorNight Terrors (Sleep Terrors) are intense episodes of fear during sleep, often accompanied by screaming, sweating, and rapid heart rate.Nightmare DisorderNightmare disorder means frequent, frightening dreams that wake you and start to affect your sleep and your days.Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NVLD)Nonverbal Learning Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in spatial, visual-motor, and social skills.NorepinephrineNorepinephrine (noradrenaline) is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter involved in the body’s fight-or-flight response.NSSI (Non-Suicidal Self-Injury)Non-Suicidal Self-Injury refers to self-inflicted harm (e.g., cutting, burning) carried out without the intention to die.
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition in which unwanted, distressing thoughts, images or urges (obsessions) keep returning, and a person feels driven to repeat actions or…Occupational TherapyOccupational Therapy (OT) is a health profession aimed at enabling individuals to participate in meaningful daily activities (occupations) despite physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.Operant ConditioningOperant conditioning is learning from consequences.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)Oppositional Defiant Disorder is a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness directed toward authority figures.OrphanhoodOrphanhood in a mental health context refers to the emotional and psychological challenges experienced by children who have lost one or both parents.OrthorexiaOrthorexia is an unhealthy obsession with “pure” or “clean” eating.OvergeneralizationOvergeneralization is a thinking pattern in which one bad experience is taken as proof that things will always go wrong.OverthinkingOverthinking is getting stuck in the same thoughts: going back over what happened, or running through what might go wrong, without reaching a decision or a plan.OxytocinOxytocin is a hormone and neuropeptide associated with social bonding, trust, and emotional regulation.
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Panic AttackA panic attack is a sudden rush of intense fear that peaks within minutes.Panic DisorderPanic Disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and ongoing worry about having additional attacks or their implications (e.g., fear of losing control).ParanoiaParanoia is a strong sense, without good evidence, that others are trying to harm, cheat, watch or humiliate you.Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) was once an umbrella term in the DSM-IV to describe a group of conditions involving delays in socialization and communication.PhobiaA Phobia is an intense, persistent, and disproportionate fear of a specific object, situation, or activity, leading to active avoidance or distress that interferes with normal functioning.Play TherapyPlay Therapy is a form of psychotherapy primarily used with children.Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)PTSD is a trauma- and stressor-related disorder that can develop after experiencing or witnessing life-threatening events (e.g., combat, natural disaster, sexual assault).Postpartum DepressionPostpartum Depression is a severe form of clinical depression occurring in mothers (and sometimes fathers) following childbirth.PsychoanalysisPsychoanalysis, developed by Sigmund Freud, is a theoretical framework and therapeutic method aiming to uncover and resolve unconscious conflicts, desires, and defense mechanisms.PsychodramaPsychodrama is an experiential form of therapy where individuals enact real-life or imaginary scenarios in a group setting.PsychosisPsychosis is a condition where an individual loses touch with reality.Psychosomatic SymptomsPsychosomatic Symptoms are physical symptoms that arise or worsen due to psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or trauma, rather than a purely organic or medical cause.PsychotherapyPsychotherapy (also called “talk therapy”) is a broad category of interventions where a trained mental health professional helps individuals understand their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and…
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QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalography)Quantitative Electroencephalography, or QEEG, is a diagnostic tool in which EEG data (electrical activity of the brain) is analyzed via computer software to create colored “brain maps.” These maps…Quality of Life (QoL)Quality of life (QoL) is your overall sense of how your life is going: your physical health, mood, relationships, independence and surroundings, judged against your own goals and values.Queer-Affirmative TherapyQueer-Affirmative Therapy is a therapeutic approach that actively acknowledges and validates the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, creating a safe, inclusive environment.QuetiapineQuetiapine (brand name Seroquel) is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and in some cases, major depressive disorder (as an add-on).Quiet Borderline Personality DisorderQuiet Borderline Personality Disorder (Quiet BPD) is not an official clinical subtype but describes a presentation where individuals internalize the intense emotional turmoil characteristic of BPD.
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Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, developed by Albert Ellis, is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on identifying and challenging irrational beliefs that cause emotional distress.Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)Reactive Attachment Disorder is a condition that can develop in young children who have not formed a healthy emotional bond (attachment) with a caregiver due to severe neglect, abuse, or frequent…Rehabilitation CounselingRehabilitation Counseling is a specialized area of counseling focusing on helping individuals with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities achieve personal, career, and independent-living goals.Relaxation TechniquesRelaxation Techniques are strategies used to reduce stress, tension, and anxiety, promoting a state of calm.RemissionRemission is a period when the symptoms of a mental health condition have eased so much that they barely affect your life, or have gone.ResilienceResilience is the ability to adapt and recover when life gets hard, through stress, loss, trauma or illness.RetraumatizationRetraumatization means re-living the feelings and body sensations of a past trauma because something now echoes it.RuminationRumination is going over the same negative thoughts again and again, usually about your feelings, your faults or what went wrong, and why, without reaching a solution.
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SapaSapa is Nigerian slang for being suddenly and severely broke.Schizoaffective DisorderSchizoaffective Disorder is a chronic mental health condition featuring symptoms of schizophrenia (hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking) alongside significant mood disorder symptoms…SchizophreniaSchizophrenia is a long-term mental health condition that causes psychosis: changes in how a person perceives reality, such as hearing voices others don’t hear or holding fixed beliefs that aren’t…Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly occurring in winter months when daylight is reduced.Self-CompassionSelf-compassion means treating yourself with the kindness you’d offer a good friend when you fail, make a mistake or are in pain, instead of attacking yourself.Self-EfficacySelf-efficacy is your belief that you can do what a particular task or situation needs: pass an exam, stop smoking, speak up in a meeting.Self-EsteemSelf-Esteem is an individual’s subjective evaluation of their own worth.Self-HarmSelf-Harm (also called Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, or NSSI) involves intentionally injuring one’s own body without the intent to end one’s life.Self-MedicationSelf-Medication refers to the use of substances (alcohol, drugs) or behaviors (e.g., overeating, excessive gaming) to relieve mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or stress.Self-TalkSelf-Talk is the internal dialogue or “inner voice” that runs through one’s mind.Separation Anxiety DisorderSeparation Anxiety Disorder involves excessive fear or anxiety about being away from home or attachment figures (e.g., parents).SerotoninSerotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and various other functions.Service Dogs for Mental HealthService Dogs for Mental Health are specially trained canines that assist individuals with psychiatric disabilities (e.g., PTSD, severe anxiety, panic disorder).Sleep DisordersSleep Disorders encompass a variety of conditions that affect sleep quality, timing, or duration.Social Anxiety DisorderSocial Anxiety Disorder is marked by intense fear or anxiety about social or performance situations where one might be scrutinized, judged, or embarrassed.Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT)Solution-focused therapy (SFT) is a short-term talking therapy that spends less time on what’s wrong and more on what you want instead.Somatic ExperiencingSomatic Experiencing is a body-oriented therapeutic approach to healing trauma and stress disorders, developed by Dr.Somatic Symptom DisorderSomatic Symptom Disorder involves one or more chronic physical symptoms (e.g., pain, fatigue) that cause excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to the symptoms.Spiritual AttackSpiritual attack is a widely used explanation in Nigeria for sudden misfortune, illness or distress — the understanding that it has been caused deliberately by malicious spiritual forces rather than…SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor)SSRIs are a class of antidepressants that block the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, increasing its availability in the synaptic cleft.StigmaStigma in mental health refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, and discrimination directed toward individuals with mental health conditions.Stress ManagementStress Management encompasses a variety of techniques and lifestyle changes aimed at reducing chronic stress and its negative impact on mental/physical health.StressorA stressor is anything that causes stress: an event, situation or demand, inside or outside you, that calls on you to adjust or cope.Substance Use DisordersSubstance Use Disorders involve the recurrent use of alcohol or drugs leading to clinically significant impairment, health problems, or distress.
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Talk TherapyA general term for psychotherapy in which a person discusses concerns and emotional issues with a mental health professional.TeletherapyTeletherapy is the provision of mental health services via remote technology—like video calls, phone calls, or chat platforms—rather than in-person sessions.TemperamentTemperament is the largely inborn side of personality: how strongly you react to things and how easily you settle and control yourself.Therapeutic AllianceThe Therapeutic Alliance (or Working Alliance) is the collaborative bond between client and therapist, encompassing mutual trust, agreement on therapy goals, and commitment to therapeutic tasks.TherapyTherapy, in mental health, usually means psychotherapy: regular conversations with a trained professional that help you understand and change troubling feelings, thoughts and behaviour.Tic DisordersTic disorders are conditions in which a person makes sudden, quick, repeated movements or sounds, called tics, that they don’t choose and find hard to control.TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation)Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in specific brain regions.Toxic StressToxic Stress is an intense and prolonged stress response without adequate support or resources, often resulting from persistent adversity (e.g., abuse, neglect, extreme poverty).Traditional HealerA traditional healer is a practitioner of indigenous healing — herbalist, dibia, babalawo, boka and others — consulted for physical and mental complaints.TramadolTramadol is a prescription opioid painkiller.Trauma-Focused CBTTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a specialized therapy model designed to help children, adolescents, and their caregivers process and cope with the aftermath of traumatic…Trauma-Informed CareTrauma-Informed Care is an approach where service providers acknowledge the widespread impact of trauma, recognize its signs and symptoms, and integrate this understanding into policies and practices…TrichotillomaniaTrichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder) involves a recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out one’s hair, resulting in hair loss.
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Unconscious MindThe Unconscious Mind, in psychodynamic theory, consists of mental processes not available to conscious awareness, influencing behavior, feelings, and judgments.Unipolar DepressionUnipolar Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) is a mood disorder characterized by a persistently low mood and loss of interest in activities, without the manic or hypomanic episodes that…Unresolved GriefUnresolved (or Complicated) Grief occurs when typical grieving processes become prolonged and significantly impair functioning.Unwanted ThoughtsUnwanted Thoughts, also called intrusive thoughts, are distressing ideas or images that pop into the mind involuntarily.
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VaginismusVaginismus involves involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles, especially around the vagina, causing discomfort or pain during attempted intercourse or penetration (e.g., tampons, medical…Validation TherapyValidation Therapy is a communication approach primarily used with individuals experiencing cognitive impairments or dementia.Values ClarificationValues Clarification is a process in therapy or personal development aimed at identifying, examining, and prioritizing one’s core beliefs and principles to guide decision-making and enhance life…Vicarious TraumaVicarious Trauma (or Secondary Traumatic Stress) occurs when professionals—such as therapists, first responders, or caregivers—experience trauma-like symptoms after prolonged exposure to others’…Victim MentalityVictim Mentality refers to a mindset where an individual consistently perceives themselves as powerless or blameless in the face of difficulties, attributing problems to external factors rather than…Village People“Village people” is a Nigerian idiom for relatives back home believed to be working against you spiritually — blamed for a failed visa, a lost job or a run of bad luck.Virtual Reality TherapyVirtual Reality Therapy uses computer-generated environments to simulate real-life situations for therapeutic purposes—particularly helpful in exposure therapy for anxiety or phobias.VulnerabilityVulnerability in a psychological context refers to the willingness to share personal thoughts, emotions, and experiences, even at the risk of rejection or criticism.
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Well-beingWell-being is how well your life is going overall: feeling reasonably happy and satisfied, functioning well, and having the health, relationships and resources to cope with stress.Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)A WRAP is a self-designed system for monitoring uncomfortable and distressing symptoms and employing planned responses, developed by Mary Ellen Copeland to help individuals manage mental health…Wernicke’s EncephalopathyWernicke’s Encephalopathy is an acute neurological condition caused by severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, often associated with chronic alcoholism.Withdrawal SyndromeWithdrawal Syndrome refers to physical or psychological symptoms experienced when reducing or discontinuing a substance (e.g., alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines) after prolonged use.Working Through“Working Through” is a psychoanalytic and psychodynamic concept involving repeated examination and reinterpretation of conflicts or traumas until the client gains deeper insight and resolution.WorryWorry is a cognitive process involving repetitive concerns about potential future threats or negative outcomes.Wounded HealerThe “Wounded Healer” concept describes a therapist or caregiver who has personally experienced similar traumas or mental health challenges.
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X-Linked AdrenoleukodystrophyX-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting the adrenal glands and myelin sheath in the nervous system.XanaxXanax is a short-acting benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for acute anxiety or panic disorders.XanthophobiaXanthophobia is an extreme or irrational fear of the color yellow.XanthophobiaXanthophobia is an intense, lasting fear of the colour yellow.XenophobiaXenophobia is a fear or hatred of strangers, foreigners, or anything perceived as “other,” often manifesting as prejudice or discrimination.Xenophobia-Induced AnxietyXenophobia-Induced Anxiety refers to heightened anxiety or distress experienced by individuals who are targets of xenophobia, discrimination, or hostility due to their perceived foreignness or…
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Yaba Left“Yaba Left” is Nigerian slang for mental illness or psychiatric admission, taken from the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital near the Yaba Left bus stop in Lagos.Yalom’s Therapeutic FactorsYalom’s Therapeutic Factors are key elements identified by psychiatrist Irvin Yalom that contribute to the effectiveness of group therapy (e.g., instillation of hope, universality, imparting…Yoga TherapyYoga Therapy uses yoga postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery to improve mental and physical health.Young Adulthood StressYoung Adulthood Stress arises during the transitional phase where individuals face challenges like entering college/workforce, financial independence, forming adult relationships, and identity…Youth CounselingYouth Counseling focuses on adolescents and young adults, helping them navigate developmental challenges, identity formation, social pressures, and emotional regulation.Youth Mental Health First AidYouth Mental Health First Aid is a training program teaching adults how to recognize and respond to mental health or substance use challenges in adolescents.
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Z-Drugs“Z-Drugs” (e.g., zolpidem, zaleplon, eszopiclone) are non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics typically prescribed for insomnia.ZelophobiaZelophobia is the irrational fear of jealousy or intense anxiety about becoming jealous.ZoloftZoloft is an SSRI antidepressant often prescribed for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and panic disorder.ZolpidemZolpidem (Ambien) is a prescription sedative-hypnotic (a “Z-drug”) commonly used to treat insomnia.ZoophobiaZoophobia is an intense, lasting fear of animals, either of one kind, such as dogs, snakes or spiders, or of animals in general.ZopicloneZopiclone (brand names vary by country) is another non-benzodiazepine hypnotic agent in the “Z-drug” class, used for short-term management of insomnia.
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