Reference
Mental Health Glossary
Psychiatric terms explained in plain language. If you've read something on this site — or been told something by a doctor — and want to understand it better, this glossary is a good place to start.
Written and reviewed by Dr. Divya C.R., MD Psychiatry, Intune Mind, Coimbatore.
A
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
A neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent difficulties with attention, impulse control, and (in some presentations) hyperactivity. ADHD is not a sign of laziness or low intelligence — it reflects differences in how the brain regulates attention and behaviour. It can be effectively managed with a combination of therapy, practical strategies, and, where appropriate, medication.
Antidepressants
A class of medications used to treat depression and several anxiety disorders. Common types include SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). They work by adjusting the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Antidepressants are not sedatives, are not addictive, and typically take 2–4 weeks to show their full effect.
Anxiety
A normal human emotion that becomes a clinical concern when it is persistent, excessive, and significantly interferes with daily life. Anxiety disorders include generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, OCD, and phobias. Each has a distinct pattern and responds to targeted treatment.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
A neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication, sensory processing, and behavioural flexibility. ASD exists on a spectrum — presentations vary widely in how they affect daily life. Early assessment and the right support can significantly improve outcomes for children and adults with autism.
B
Behavioural Activation
A structured therapeutic approach used in the treatment of depression. It involves gradually re-engaging with activities that provide a sense of achievement, pleasure, or connection — breaking the cycle of withdrawal and low mood. Behavioural activation is evidence-based and is often used as part of CBT for depression.
Bipolar Disorder
A mood disorder characterised by episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy) alternating with episodes of depression. Bipolar I involves full manic episodes; Bipolar II involves hypomania. It is a lifelong condition that is highly manageable with the right treatment and monitoring.
Burnout
A state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged, unmanaged stress — typically in the context of work or caregiving. Burnout involves feelings of cynicism, detachment, and reduced effectiveness. It is distinct from depression, though the two can co-occur and burnout can progress into clinical depression if unaddressed.
C
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
One of the most widely researched and evidence-based forms of psychotherapy. CBT works by identifying the relationships between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours — and teaching practical skills to recognise and change unhelpful patterns. It is effective for depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and many other conditions.
D
DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
A form of psychotherapy developed specifically for people who experience intense, overwhelming emotions. DBT teaches skills in four areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is particularly effective for personality disorders, self-harm, and emotional dysregulation.
Dementia
An umbrella term for conditions that involve progressive decline in memory, cognition, and daily functioning — caused by disease processes affecting the brain. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type. Early assessment is important because some causes are treatable and all types benefit from appropriate management and support.
Depression
A clinical condition characterised by persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and a range of physical symptoms that last for at least two weeks and significantly affect daily functioning. Depression is not sadness, weakness, or a character flaw — it is a treatable medical condition, and one of the most common mental health conditions in the world.
Dual Diagnosis
The co-occurrence of a mental health condition and a substance use disorder in the same person. For example, depression and alcohol dependence, or anxiety and cannabis use disorder. Dual diagnosis is common — substances are frequently used as a way of managing mental health symptoms — and treatment must address both conditions simultaneously for recovery to be sustained.
G
GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder)
A chronic anxiety condition characterised by persistent, difficult-to-control worry about multiple everyday topics — health, finances, relationships, work — that is present on most days and is disproportionate to the actual level of risk. GAD also causes physical symptoms including muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep difficulties.
M
Mania / Hypomania
Elevated or irritable mood states associated with bipolar disorder. Mania involves significantly elevated energy, reduced need for sleep, rapid thoughts, impulsivity, and (in severe episodes) poor judgement or loss of contact with reality. Hypomania is a milder form that does not impair functioning as severely. Both require careful monitoring and treatment.
O
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
A condition characterised by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the distress caused by those thoughts. OCD is not about being "a bit fussy" — it can be severely debilitating. The most effective treatment is a specialised form of CBT called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
P
Panic Attack
A sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and involves physical symptoms such as racing heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom or unreality. Panic attacks are not dangerous, though they feel extremely alarming. Repeated panic attacks — especially with avoidance behaviour — constitute panic disorder.
Personality Disorder
A group of conditions characterised by enduring, inflexible patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviate from cultural norms and cause significant distress or impairment. Personality disorders are not character flaws — they typically develop in response to early experiences and are treatable with the right therapeutic approach, particularly DBT and psychodynamic therapy.
Postnatal Depression
A clinical depression that develops after childbirth, typically within the first year. It is distinct from the "baby blues" (a brief, mild low mood in the first two weeks) and requires proper treatment. Postnatal depression affects around 1 in 7 mothers and is highly treatable — but is frequently underdiagnosed because mothers feel guilty or fear being seen as a bad parent for struggling.
Psychiatrist
A medical doctor (MBBS) who has completed specialised postgraduate training in psychiatry (typically an MD or DPM). Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat the full range of mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide or supervise psychotherapy. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are fully qualified medical doctors.
Psychosis
A state in which a person's contact with reality is significantly impaired — characterised by hallucinations (hearing or seeing things others do not), delusions (fixed false beliefs), and disorganised thinking or speech. Psychosis can occur in schizophrenia, severe bipolar disorder, severe depression, and as a result of substance use. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt assessment.
Psychotherapy (Talking Therapy)
The use of structured psychological techniques — delivered through conversation — to help people understand and change thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that are causing distress or limiting their functioning. Common approaches include CBT, DBT, interpersonal therapy, and supportive psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can be used alone or alongside medication.
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
A condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event — such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or sustained abuse. Symptoms include intrusive memories and flashbacks, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative changes in mood and cognition, and heightened reactivity. PTSD is highly treatable with specialist trauma-focused therapies.
S
Schizophrenia
A serious mental health condition characterised by psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions), disorganised thinking, and negative symptoms such as reduced motivation and emotional expression. Schizophrenia is manageable with appropriate antipsychotic medication and psychosocial support. People with schizophrenia can and do lead meaningful, productive lives with proper ongoing care.
T
Telepsychiatry
The delivery of psychiatric care via video or telephone consultation, rather than in person. Telepsychiatry allows patients who cannot travel — due to distance, mobility, or other barriers — to access the same quality of psychiatric assessment and treatment. Intune Mind offers telepsychiatry for patients from Coimbatore and surrounding areas including Tiruppur, Palakkad, and Pollachi.
Have a question not covered here?
If you're trying to understand a diagnosis, a treatment option, or something Dr. Divya mentioned in a consultation, please ask. There are no silly questions when it comes to your mental health.