Disturbances in Suggestibility

Disturbances in Suggestibility Disturbances in suggestibility refer to an abnormal susceptibility to influence by others. This can mean a person is unusually receptive to suggestions, commands, or the influence of external stimuli, often to the extent that their behavior and beliefs can be easily manipulated or altered. This heightened suggestibility can interfere with a person’s […]

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Disturbances of Attention

Disturbances of Attention Disturbances of attention refer to difficulties in maintaining focus, sustaining concentration, or selectively attending to important stimuli while ignoring irrelevant information. These disturbances can impair an individual’s ability to function effectively in daily activities, affecting work, school, and social interactions. They can manifest as either deficits in attention (inability to focus) or […]

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Disturbances of Communication

Disturbances of Communication Disturbances of communication refer to abnormalities in the ability to convey or understand messages effectively. These disturbances can affect verbal and non-verbal communication, leading to significant challenges in social interactions, relationships, and daily functioning. Communication disturbances can manifest as difficulties in speaking, understanding language, using appropriate social cues, and maintaining coherent discourse. […]

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Disturbances of Consciousness

Disturbances of Consciousness Disturbances of consciousness refer to abnormalities in the level or clarity of awareness of oneself and the environment. These disturbances can range from slight confusion to complete unresponsiveness. They impact a person’s ability to interact with their surroundings, maintain attention, and respond appropriately to stimuli. Consciousness is a continuum that includes various […]

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Disturbances of Memory

Disturbances of Memory Disturbances of memory refer to various types of impairments or alterations in the ability to encode, store, retain, and recall information. These disturbances can affect short-term memory, long-term memory, or both, and can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life. Memory disturbances can range from mild forgetfulness to severe […]

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Dysarthria

Dysarthria Dysarthria is a motor speech disorder resulting from neurological injury that affects the muscles used in speaking, such as the lips, tongue, vocal cords, and diaphragm. It is characterized by poor articulation of phonemes (the sounds of speech) due to muscle weakness, paralysis, or lack of coordination. This condition can affect speech clarity, volume, […]

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Dysphoric Mood

Dysphoric Mood A Dysphoric Mood refers to a state of profound unease or dissatisfaction. It is characterized by feelings of sadness, irritability, anxiety, and restlessness. Unlike transient emotional responses to specific events, a dysphoric mood is more pervasive and persistent, significantly impacting an individual’s overall emotional state and quality of life. This condition can manifest […]

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Dysprosody

Dysprosody Dysprosody is a speech disorder that affects the rhythm, intonation, and stress patterns of speech, making it sound unusual or non-native. Individuals with dysprosody may have speech that sounds monotone, overly rhythmic, or irregular, and their emotional expressions through speech may seem inappropriate or mismatched with the context. This condition does not affect the […]

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Echolalia

Echolalia Echolalia is the involuntary repetition or imitation of another person’s spoken words. It is a common speech phenomenon in early childhood development, typically seen in children learning to speak. However, when echolalia persists beyond the developmental stage, it can be indicative of underlying neurological or psychiatric conditions. Echolalia can be immediate, occurring right after […]

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Echopraxia

Echopraxia Echopraxia is the involuntary imitation or repetition of another person’s actions or movements. This condition is characterized by the automatic mimicry of gestures, postures, or behaviors without conscious intent or control. Echopraxia can be observed in various neurological and psychiatric disorders and is often seen alongside other symptoms such as echolalia (repetition of words). […]

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Ecstasy

Ecstasy In the context of mental health, ecstasy refers to an intense feeling of happiness, pleasure, or excitement that goes beyond normal emotional experiences. This heightened state of emotion can be both a symptom and a sign of certain mental health conditions. It is important to differentiate this psychological state from the street drug known […]

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Egomania

Egomania Egomania refers to an obsessive preoccupation with oneself and an excessive sense of self-importance. Individuals exhibiting egomania often have an inflated view of their abilities, achievements, and worth, accompanied by a profound need for admiration and attention. This behavior goes beyond healthy self-esteem and can significantly impair social relationships and daily functioning. Egomania as […]

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Eidetic Images

Eidetic Images Eidetic images, often referred to as photographic memory, are vivid and detailed visual images that persist in a person’s mind after the original stimulus is no longer present. Individuals with eidetic imagery can recall intricate details of an image with high precision, as if they are still looking at the original scene. This […]

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Elevated Mood

Elevated Mood Elevated mood refers to a state of heightened emotional well-being and increased energy that goes beyond normal levels of happiness or contentment. While a positive and elevated mood is a normal part of human experience, when it is excessive, inappropriate to the situation, or sustained over a long period, it can be a […]

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Emotion

Emotion Emotion is a complex psychological state that encompasses a range of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Emotions are often categorized into basic types such as happiness, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, and disgust. These emotional states are influenced by our experiences, thoughts, and physiological responses. Emotions play a crucial role in how we interact with the […]

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Erotomania

Erotomania Erotomania, also known as De Clérambault’s syndrome, is a rare psychiatric condition characterized by the delusional belief that another person, often of higher social status, is in love with the affected individual. This delusion is usually persistent and can lead to significant distress and behavioral changes. The person with erotomania may believe that the […]

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Euphoria

Euphoria Euphoria is a state of intense happiness, pleasure, or excitement that is often disproportionate to the situation at hand. It is characterized by an overwhelming feeling of well-being and elation. While experiencing euphoria can be a normal reaction to positive events, it can also be a symptom of underlying mental health conditions when it […]

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Euthymic Mood

Euthymic Mood Euthymic mood refers to a state of stable mental health and emotional well-being. It is characterized by a balanced, even-tempered mood that is neither overly elevated nor excessively low. Individuals experiencing a euthymic mood typically feel content, calm, and at peace. This state is considered the baseline or “normal” mood and is often […]

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Excited

Excited In mental health, “excited” refers to a state of heightened arousal or agitation. This can involve increased energy levels, restlessness, impulsivity, and sometimes euphoria. Excitement may present as a symptom of several mental illnesses, each with distinct characteristics and implications. Excitement as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Managing Excitement in Mental Illness […]

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Expansive Mood

Expansive Mood Expansive mood refers to an exaggerated and unrestrained emotional state characterized by increased self-esteem, grandiosity, talkativeness, and heightened sociability. Individuals experiencing expansive mood may exhibit a sense of euphoria, optimism, and a tendency to engage in impulsive or risky behaviors without consideration of consequences. This mood is often intense and may lead to […]

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Fausse Reconnaissance (False Recognition)

Fausse Reconnaissance (False Recognition) Fausse reconnaissance, or false recognition, refers to a cognitive phenomenon where an individual falsely believes that something or someone familiar is recognized, even though it has never been encountered before or does not actually exist. It involves incorrectly attributing familiarity to something new or unrelated. Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness […]

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Fear

Fear Fear is human’s emotional response to a perceived threat, danger, or harm. It triggers physiological reactions like increased heart rate, sweating, and heightened alertness, preparing the body to respond to potential danger. While fear is a normal and adaptive emotion that helps protect us from harm, excessive or irrational fear can be symptomatic of […]

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Flat Affect

Flat Affect Flat affect, also known as blunted affect, refers to a reduction or absence of emotional expressiveness. It is characterized by a lack of facial expressions, gestures, vocal inflections, or other nonverbal behaviors that typically accompany emotions. Individuals with flat affect may appear emotionally “flat” or neutral in their outward demeanor, even in situations […]

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Flight of Ideas

Flight of Ideas Flight of ideas is a rapid, continuous flow of accelerated speech where thoughts move quickly from one topic to another, often with little connection between them. This phenomenon is characterized by a rapid succession of fragmented or tangential thoughts that can be difficult to follow or maintain coherence. Flight of Ideas as […]

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Fluent Aphasia

Fluent Aphasia Fluent aphasia, also known as Wernicke’s aphasia, is a type of language impairment characterized by fluent, but nonsensical speech. Individuals with fluent aphasia may speak in long, complex sentences that flow smoothly and with proper grammar and syntax. However, their speech lacks meaningful content, and they may use neologisms (made-up words) or replace […]

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Folie à Deux (Folie à Trois)

Folie à Deux (Folie à Trois) Folie à deux, which translates from French as “madness of two,” refers to a rare psychiatric condition where delusional beliefs are shared between two individuals who have a close relationship. Folie à trois extends this concept to involve three individuals sharing the same delusional beliefs. Sign and Symptom Folie […]

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Formal Thought Disorder

Formal Thought Disorder Formal thought disorder, also known as disorganized thinking, refers to disturbances in the organization and coherence of thought processes. It involves difficulties in maintaining logical connections between thoughts, which can manifest in speech and writing as disorganized or incomprehensible language. Formal Thought Disorder as a Sign and Symptom Formal thought disorder is […]

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Free-Floating Anxiety

Free-Floating Anxiety Free-floating anxiety refers to a persistent, generalized feeling of apprehension or unease without a specific trigger or cause. It is characterized by a sense of worry or dread that is not necessarily tied to any particular situation or object. Free-Floating Anxiety as a Sign and Symptom Free-floating anxiety can be a feature of […]

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Fugue

Fugue Fugue in the context of mental illness refers to a rare dissociative disorder characterized by sudden, unexpected travel away from home or one’s usual environment, accompanied by amnesia for personal information and past events. Here’s an overview: In mental health, a fugue is a dissociative disorder where individuals experience: Fugue as a Sign and […]

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Global Aphasia

Global Aphasia Global aphasia is a severe communication disorder that results from damage to the brain’s language centers, usually caused by a stroke or brain injury. It affects both expressive (speaking and writing) and receptive (understanding and reading) language abilities. Signs and Symptoms Causes Global aphasia typically results from: Treatment Treatment for global aphasia focuses […]

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Glossolalia

Glossolalia Glossolalia, often referred to as “speaking in tongues,” is a linguistic phenomenon where individuals produce speech-like sounds that resemble real language but are unintelligible and lack coherent meaning. It is commonly associated with religious or spiritual contexts, particularly in charismatic or Pentecostal traditions, where it is perceived as a form of divine communication or […]

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Grief

Grief Grief is a natural and complex emotional response to loss. It encompasses a range of feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt, and despair, typically experienced after the death of a loved one or another significant loss like divorce or job loss. Grief is not inherently a sign or symptom of mental illness but rather […]

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Gustatory Hallucinations

Gustatory Hallucinations Gustatory hallucinations are sensory perceptions of taste in the absence of any external stimuli. These experiences involve tasting something that is not actually present, and they can range from pleasant to unpleasant or even bizarre flavors. Gustatory hallucinations are relatively uncommon compared to other types of hallucinations but can occur in several mental […]

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Hallucinations

Hallucinations Hallucinations are sensory perceptions that occur in the absence of any external stimuli. They can affect any of the senses—sight, hearing, taste, smell, or touch—and are vivid and real to the person experiencing them, despite lacking any objective basis. Hallucinations are a hallmark symptom of several mental health disorders and can vary widely in […]

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Hallucinosis

Hallucinosis Hallucinosis refers to a condition characterized by persistent and intense hallucinations that occur without full loss of consciousness. Here’s an overview: In mental health, hallucinosis refers to: Hallucinosis as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Hallucinosis can occur in several mental health conditions, including: Symptoms of Hallucinosis Managing Hallucinosis Conclusion Hallucinosis is characterized […]

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Hyperactivity (Hyperkinesis) in Mental Health

Hyperactivity (Hyperkinesis) in Mental Health Hyperactivity, also known as hyperkinesis, refers to excessive physical movement, restlessness, and difficulty in remaining still. It is a symptom often associated with various mental health disorders, particularly those affecting attention and impulse control. Signs and Symptoms in Mental Illness Hyperactivity is commonly observed in several mental health conditions: Treatment […]

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Disturbances in Speech

Disturbances in Speech Disturbances in speech refer to abnormalities in the production, flow, and coherence of verbal communication. These disturbances can impact how a person speaks, affecting the clarity, organization, and meaning of their speech. Such disturbances can be indicative of underlying cognitive or psychiatric conditions and can significantly impair social interactions and communication. Disturbances […]

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Disturbances in the Form of Thinking

Disturbances in the Form of Thinking Disturbances in the form of thinking refer to abnormalities in the logical organization, coherence, and flow of thoughts. These disturbances impact how thoughts are connected and expressed, rather than what the thoughts are about (which pertains to the content). Such disturbances can significantly impair communication, decision-making, and daily functioning. […]

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Hypersomnia

Hypersomnia Hypersomnia is a condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleep. It is considered a symptom of several mental health disorders where abnormal sleep patterns are prevalent. Signs and Symptoms in Mental Illness Hypersomnia can manifest in various mental health conditions: Treatment and Management Managing hypersomnia involves addressing the underlying mental health […]

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Disturbances in the Content of Thought

Disturbances in the Content of Thought Disturbances In The Content Of Thought refer to abnormalities in the ideas, beliefs, and themes that dominate an individual’s thinking. Unlike disturbances in the form of thought, which involve disruptions in the logical organization or flow of thoughts, content disturbances involve what the person is thinking about. These disturbances […]

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Hypermnesia

Hypermnesia Hypermnesia refers to a condition where an individual experiences an exceptional memory recall or enhancement beyond normal levels. It is characterized by the ability to remember details and events with great clarity and accuracy, often in vivid detail. Hypermnesia can be associated with certain mental health conditions, although it is less commonly recognized compared […]

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Disturbances Associated with Organic Brain Disease

Disturbances Associated with Organic Brain Disease Disturbances associated with organic brain disease refer to a range of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms resulting from physical damage or dysfunction in the brain. Unlike purely psychological disorders, these disturbances have a clear biological basis and are often due to conditions such as brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, infections, […]

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Disturbances Associated with Conversion and Dissociative Phenomena

Disturbances Associated with Conversion and Dissociative Phenomena Disturbances associated with conversion and dissociative phenomena refer to a range of psychological symptoms where mental distress is expressed through physical symptoms or a disruption in consciousness, memory, identity, or perception. These disturbances are typically the result of severe psychological stress or trauma. Conversion Phenomena Conversion phenomena involve […]

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Distractibility

Distractibility Distractibility refers to an individual’s difficulty in maintaining attention or focus on a task or activity, often being easily sidetracked by irrelevant stimuli. This can lead to a significant impact on daily functioning, productivity, and the ability to complete tasks. Distractibility as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Distractibility is a common symptom […]

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Hypnagogic Hallucinations

Hypnagogic Hallucinations Hypnagogic hallucinations are vivid, dream-like experiences that occur while transitioning from wakefulness to sleep. These hallucinations can be unsettling and often involve sensory perceptions that feel real but occur without any external stimuli. Signs and Symptoms in Mental Illness Hypnagogic hallucinations are commonly associated with several mental health conditions, including: Treatment and Management […]

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Disorientation

Disorientation Disorientation refers to a state in which a person loses their sense of direction, time, or place, and may even be unsure of their own identity. This condition can manifest in various ways, such as confusion about the current date, inability to recognize familiar environments, or difficulty in identifying oneself and others. Disorientation as […]

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Hypnopompic Hallucinations

Hypnopompic Hallucinations Hypnopompic hallucinations are vivid and often frightening sensory experiences that occur upon awakening from sleep. Unlike dreams, these hallucinations occur during the transition from sleep to wakefulness, and individuals may perceive them as real despite no external stimuli being present. Signs and Symptoms in Mental Illness Hypnopompic hallucinations are associated with several mental […]

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Hypnosis

Hypnosis It’s important to clarify that hypnosis itself is not considered a sign or symptom of mental illness. Instead, hypnosis is a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation induced by a trained therapist or through self-hypnosis techniques. It’s often used therapeutically to facilitate behavioral changes, enhance relaxation, and manage certain symptoms. In […]

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Dipsomania

Dipsomania Dipsomania is an old-fashioned term used to describe an uncontrollable craving for alcohol. This condition involves periodic episodes where the person feels an overwhelming urge to drink excessively. Although the term is not commonly used today, it historically pointed to what we now understand as severe forms of alcohol dependence or binge drinking. Dipsomania […]

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Hypoactivity (hypokinesis)

Hypoactivity (hypokinesis) Hypoactivity (hypokinesis) refers to a reduced level of physical activity or movement, which can manifest as a sign or symptom in various mental health conditions. It contrasts with hyperactivity, where there is an excess of movement and restlessness. Hypoactivity can present differently depending on the underlying cause and severity, and it is often […]

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Diminished Libido

Diminished Libido Diminished libido refers to a decrease or loss of sexual desire or interest in sexual activity. It is a common issue that can affect anyone, and it may stem from a variety of physical, psychological, and emotional factors. This condition can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and intimate relationships. Diminished Libido […]

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Hypochondria

Hypochondria Hypochondria, formally known as hypochondriasis or illness anxiety disorder, is characterized by excessive worry and fear about having or developing a serious illness. Individuals with hypochondria often misinterpret bodily symptoms as signs of a severe medical condition, despite reassurances from medical professionals and negative diagnostic tests. This condition can significantly impact daily life, causing […]

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Hysterical Anesthesia

Hysterical Anesthesia Hysterical anesthesia, also known as conversion disorder with sensory symptoms, is a condition where individuals experience a loss or alteration of sensation in a specific part of their body without any organic cause. It falls under the category of conversion disorder, where psychological stress or trauma manifests as physical symptoms. Description and Symptoms […]

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Illogical thinking

Illogical thinking Illogical thinking refers to a pattern of thought that deviates from rational reasoning or conventional logic. It is often characterized by drawing conclusions that do not follow logically from the premises, making connections that are not supported by evidence, or jumping to conclusions without sufficient basis. In the context of mental illness, illogical […]

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Dereism

Dereism Dereism refers to a type of thinking that is detached from reality and focused on inner, subjective experiences or fantasies rather than external, objective reality. It involves a withdrawal from the real world into a realm of imagination, often resulting in thoughts that are illogical or disconnected from practical considerations. Dereism as a Sign […]

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Illusions

Illusions Illusions in the context of mental illness refer to perceptual distortions where a person misinterprets real sensory stimuli. Unlike hallucinations, illusions involve misperceptions of actual external stimuli rather than perceptions that have no external basis. Description and Symptoms Mental Illnesses Associated with Illusions Illusions can be symptomatic of various mental health conditions, including: Diagnosis […]

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Impaired insight

Impaired insight Impaired insight in the context of mental illness refers to a diminished ability to understand or recognize one’s own mental health condition, symptoms, or the consequences of one’s behavior. It is a crucial aspect of many psychiatric disorders where individuals may not fully comprehend the severity or impact of their illness on their […]

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Derealization

Derealization Derealization is a dissociative symptom characterized by feelings of detachment from one’s surroundings. Individuals experiencing derealization may perceive the external world as unreal, dreamlike, or distorted. This sense of detachment can be unsettling and may lead to significant distress. Derealization as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Derealization often occurs in conjunction with […]

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Impaired Judgment

Impaired Judgment Impaired judgment in the context of mental illness refers to a diminished ability to make sound and rational decisions. It is a significant symptom across various psychiatric disorders where individuals may struggle to assess situations accurately, evaluate risks appropriately, or make choices that align with their best interests or societal norms. Description and […]

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Inappropriate Affect and Incoherence

Inappropriate Affect and Incoherence Inappropriate Affect Definition: Inappropriate affect refers to emotions or emotional expressions that are incongruent with the situation or context. This can manifest as laughing or smiling during a sad event, showing anger in a situation that doesn’t warrant it, or displaying flat affect (lack of emotional expression) when emotional responses are […]

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Derailment

Derailment Derailment is a term used in psychology and psychiatry to describe a pattern of disorganized thinking and speech. It refers to a disruption in the train of thought, where an individual abruptly shifts from one topic to another, seemingly unrelated topic, making their speech or writing difficult to follow. This phenomenon is often indicative […]

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Initial Insomnia

Initial Insomnia Initial insomnia refers to difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night, which can be a sign of various mental health conditions. Here’s an overview: Meaning of Initial Insomnia Definition: Initial insomnia, also known as sleep onset insomnia, is characterized by difficulty initiating sleep despite adequate opportunity and circumstances for sleep. Individuals […]

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Insight

Insight Insight refers to the ability to recognize and understand one’s own mental health condition, including symptoms, behaviors, and their consequences. Here’s an overview: Meaning Definition: Insight in the context of mental illness refers to the awareness and understanding that an individual has regarding their own mental health condition. It encompasses recognizing symptoms, acknowledging the […]

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Insomnia

Insomnia Insomnia refers to a persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep despite adequate opportunity for sleep. Here’s an explanation: Meaning Definition: Insomnia is characterized by difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, waking up too early, or experiencing non-refreshing sleep. It is often associated with daytime impairment or distress. Significance as a Sign […]

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Intellectual Insight

Intellectual Insight Intellectual Insight refers to the cognitive understanding or awareness of one’s mental health condition, symptoms, or issues. Here’s an explanation: Meaning Definition: Intellectual insight in the context of mental illness refers to a person’s ability to intellectually understand and articulate their own psychological or emotional issues, symptoms, or the nature of their mental […]

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Intelligence

Intelligence Intelligence refers to the cognitive ability to comprehend, learn, reason, and solve problems effectively. Here’s an explanation of intelligence as it relates to mental illness: Meaning Definition: Intelligence encompasses a person’s capacity for logical thinking, understanding complex ideas, learning from experience, adapting to new situations, and applying knowledge to solve problems or create new […]

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Irrelevant Answer

Irrelevant Answer “Irrelevant answer” refers to a response that does not logically follow or relate to the question or topic at hand. In the context of mental illness, this can be a symptom indicating cognitive or thought disturbances. Here’s a deeper dive into its meaning, relevance, and associated conditions: Meaning An irrelevant answer occurs when […]

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Irritable Mood

Irritable Mood An irritable mood is when someone feels easily annoyed or angered, often more than what the situation might typically cause. This state of mind can make a person quick to snap or react negatively to even minor inconveniences or frustrations. It’s like having a shorter fuse than usual. As a Sign and Symptom […]

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Jamais Vu

Jamais Vu “Jamais vu” is a French term that translates to “never seen.” It refers to the phenomenon where a person feels that a familiar situation or place is strange and unfamiliar. It is often described as the opposite of “déjà vu.” While déjà vu is the feeling that something new is familiar, jamais vu […]

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Jargon Aphasia

Jargon Aphasia Jargon aphasia, also known as fluent aphasia or Wernicke’s aphasia, is a type of language disorder characterized by speech that is fluent but filled with nonsensical, incorrect, or invented words (neologisms). People with jargon aphasia can produce a stream of words that sounds like normal speech but lacks meaningful content. Their sentences may […]

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Judgment

Judgment “Judgment” refers to the cognitive ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions. It involves evaluating information, weighing options, and foreseeing potential consequences of actions. Good judgment is essential for everyday decision-making and effective problem-solving. Judgment as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness When judgment is impaired, it can manifest as […]

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Kleptomania

Kleptomania Kleptomania is a psychological condition known by a repetitive urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or financial value. The act of stealing is impulsive and often driven by an overwhelming compulsion, rather than for financial gain or as a result of planning. Kleptomania as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Labile Affect

Labile Affect “Labile affect” refers to rapid and exaggerated changes in mood or emotional expression that are inappropriate to the situation. People with labile affect may experience sudden shifts from one emotional state to another, such as going from laughing to crying without a clear reason. These emotional responses are often intense and can be […]

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Lilliputian Hallucination

Lilliputian Hallucination “Lilliputian hallucination” is a type of visual hallucination where individuals see small people or objects. This term comes from the fictional land of Lilliput in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” where the inhabitants are tiny. These hallucinations involve perceiving objects or beings that are significantly smaller than their actual size or than what is […]

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Logorrhea

Logorrhea “Logorrhea” is a term used to describe excessive and often incoherent talkativeness or wordiness. It involves an uncontrollable flow of speech that is typically rapid, verbose, and tangential, making it difficult for others to follow or engage in a coherent conversation. Logorrhea as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Logorrhea can be a […]

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Loosening of Associations

Loosening of Associations “Loosening of associations” refers to a disturbance in the flow of thought where ideas and concepts become disconnected or fragmented. This phenomenon disrupts the normal coherence and logical progression of speech or thinking. It can manifest as rapid shifts between unrelated topics, tangential or irrelevant remarks, and difficulty maintaining a clear line […]

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Macropsia

Macropsia “Macropsia” is a perceptual disturbance where objects are perceived as larger than they actually are. This phenomenon can affect visual perception, causing individuals to perceive their surroundings as distorted, with objects appearing unusually large. Macropsia as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Macropsia is not typically considered a primary symptom of mental illness […]

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Magical Thinking

Magical Thinking “Magical thinking” refers to the belief that one’s thoughts, words, or actions can influence events or outcomes in ways that defy conventional cause-and-effect relationships. It involves attributing supernatural or unrealistic powers to oneself or objects, often without evidence or rational basis. Magical Thinking as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Magical thinking […]

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Mannerisms

Mannerisms “Mannerisms” refer to distinctive, often exaggerated behaviors or movements that deviate from normal social norms or expectations. These behaviors can manifest in various forms, including gestures, postures, facial expressions, speech patterns, and overall demeanor. Mannerisms as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Mannerisms are considered a symptom when they are persistent, inappropriate, or […]

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Memory

Memory Memory refers to the mental processes involved in encoding, storing, and retrieving information. It allows individuals to retain and recall past experiences, facts, and learned skills. “Memory” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness In the context of mental illness, memory disturbances can manifest in various ways: Mental Illnesses with Memory Disturbances as […]

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Mental Disorders

Mental Disorders A mental disorder, also known as a mental illness or psychiatric disorder, refers to conditions that profoundly affect how a person thinks, feels, behaves, or perceives the world around them. These disorders are characterized by disruptions in cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior that cause significant distress or impair a person’s ability to function […]

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Mental Retardation

Mental Retardation “Mental retardation,” now more commonly referred to as intellectual disability, is a developmental disorder characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning (such as reasoning, learning, problem-solving) and adaptive behaviors (abilities to live independently and function in daily life). Sign and Symptoms Intellectual disability is not considered a mental illness itself but rather a neurodevelopmental […]

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Micropsia

Micropsia Micropsia is a perceptual disorder where objects appear smaller than they actually are. It can affect visual perception, causing individuals to perceive their surroundings as diminished in size. “Micropsia” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness In the context of mental illness, micropsia can occur as a symptom of certain conditions, particularly those […]

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Middle Insomnia

Middle Insomnia Middle insomnia refers to a type of sleep disturbance where individuals wake up during the night and have difficulty returning to sleep. It typically occurs in the middle of the night, disrupting the continuity of sleep. “Middle Insomnia” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Middle insomnia can be a symptom of […]

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Mimicry

Mimicry Mimicry refers to the action or skill of imitating someone or something, typically to entertain or deceive. In a broader psychological context, it can involve copying the behaviors, speech, or expressions of others. “Mimicry” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness In the context of mental illness, mimicry can be an involuntary or […]

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Monomania

Monomania Monomania refers to an obsessive preoccupation with a single thought, idea, or subject to the exclusion of other interests. Historically, it was used to describe a mental condition where a person was fixated on one topic, often leading to irrational or extreme behavior related to that obsession. “Monomania” as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Mood Swings

Mood Swings Mood swings refer to rapid and extreme fluctuations in a person’s emotional state. These changes can happen quickly and are often unpredictable, ranging from feelings of happiness and euphoria to sadness, irritability, or anger. “Mood Swings” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness As a sign and symptom of mental illness, mood […]

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Mood

Mood Mood is a sustained emotional state that influences a person’s thoughts, behaviors, and perception of the world. Unlike fleeting emotions triggered by specific events, moods last longer and can be affected by various factors, including biological, psychological, and environmental influences. “Mood” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Mood disturbances can be significant […]

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Mood-Congruent Delusion

Mood-Congruent Delusion A mood-congruent delusion is a false belief that is consistent with the person’s current emotional state or mood. These delusions typically reflect themes of despair, guilt, grandiosity, or other intense emotions that align with the individual’s prevailing mood. Unlike mood-incongruent delusions, which involve themes that are unrelated to the person’s mood, mood-congruent delusions […]

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Mood-Congruent Hallucination

Mood-Congruent Hallucination A mood-congruent hallucination is a sensory perception that occurs in line with a person’s current emotional state or mood. Unlike mood-incongruent hallucinations, which involve perceptions unrelated to the individual’s mood, mood-congruent hallucinations reflect themes consistent with their emotional experiences at the time. These hallucinations can involve any of the senses (auditory, visual, tactile, […]

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Mood-Incongruent Delusion

Mood-Incongruent Delusion A mood-incongruent delusion is a false belief that is not consistent with the person’s current emotional state or mood. These delusions typically involve themes that are unrelated to the individual’s feelings or emotions at the time. Unlike mood-congruent delusions, which align with the person’s prevailing mood, mood-incongruent delusions involve content that contradicts their […]

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Mood-Incongruent Hallucination

Mood-Incongruent Hallucination A mood-incongruent hallucination is a sensory perception that occurs without regard to the person’s current emotional state or mood. Unlike mood-congruent hallucinations, which align with the individual’s prevailing mood, mood-incongruent hallucinations involve perceptions that are unrelated to their emotional experiences at the time. These hallucinations can involve any of the senses (auditory, visual, […]

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Motor Aphasia

Motor Aphasia Motor aphasia, also known as Broca’s aphasia or non-fluent aphasia, is a type of language disorder that affects the ability to produce spoken language. It is characterized by difficulty in forming words and sentences due to impairment in the motor aspects of speech production. Individuals with motor aphasia typically understand language and can […]

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Motor Behavior (Conation)

Motor Behavior (Conation) Motor behavior, also referred to as conation in psychological terms, encompasses the physical actions and movements that individuals engage in. It relates to the volitional aspect of behavior, involving the initiation and execution of purposeful actions, often influenced by motivation, intention, and goal-directed behavior. “Motor Behavior (Conation)” as a Sign and Symptom […]

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Mourning

Mourning Mourning refers to the process of grieving the loss of someone or something significant. It is a natural response to loss and involves emotional, cognitive, and behavioral components as individuals come to terms with the reality of their loss and adjust to life without the person or object they’ve lost. Mourning typically includes feelings […]

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Multiple Personality

Multiple Personality “Multiple personality,” more accurately known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), is a complex mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities within a single individual. Each identity may have its own way of perceiving and interacting with the world, often accompanied by gaps in memory […]

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Mutism

Mutism Mutism refers to the inability or refusal to speak in specific situations or contexts where speech is expected. It can occur across various developmental stages and may be temporary or persistent. Mutism is not a disorder itself but rather a symptom that can manifest in several mental health conditions. “Mutism” as a Sign and […]

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Negativism

Negativism Negativism refers to a tendency to resist or oppose suggestions, requests, or instructions from others. It involves an uncooperative or contrary attitude, often expressed through verbal defiance or passive resistance. Negativism can manifest in various ways and is considered a symptom observed in several mental health conditions. “Negativism” as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Neologism

Neologism A neologism refers to the creation of new words, phrases, or meanings that are typically not understood or recognized by others. In the context of mental illness, neologisms can manifest as a symptom of certain psychiatric disorders where individuals may invent words or use existing words in unconventional or idiosyncratic ways that deviate from […]

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