Neurosis

Neurosis Neurosis refers to a broad category of mental health disorders characterized by distressing emotional symptoms. Unlike psychotic disorders, individuals with neurosis typically maintain contact with reality but experience significant anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, or compulsive behaviors that interfere with daily functioning. Neurosis is considered a less severe form of mental illness compared to psychotic […]

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Depression

Depression Depression is a profound mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that once brought pleasure. It affects how individuals think, feel, and handle daily activities, often leading to a variety of emotional and physical problems. Depression can occur due to a combination of genetic, biological, […]

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Depersonalization

Depersonalization Depersonalization is a dissociative symptom where individuals feel detached from their thoughts, feelings, and body. It is as though they are observing themselves from outside their own body or living in a dream-like state. This experience can be highly distressing and may interfere with daily functioning, although the person remains aware that this sense […]

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Dementia

Dementia Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life and independent functioning. It is not a single disease but rather a syndrome that involves a deterioration of memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Dementia primarily affects older adults, although […]

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Delusion

Delusion A delusion is a fixed, false belief that persists despite evidence to the contrary. It is a core symptom of certain mental illnesses and is characterized by a strong conviction in the belief despite its implausibility or lack of supporting evidence. Delusions can take various forms, such as persecutory (believing one is being targeted […]

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Delusion of Self-Accusation

Delusion of Self-Accusation Delusion of self-accusation, or delusion of guilt, is when someone firmly believes they’ve committed a moral or criminal wrongdoing, even though there’s no evidence supporting it. It’s like carrying an unfounded burden of guilt or shame for something they didn’t do. This delusion can be incredibly distressing as individuals might feel intense […]

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Delusion of Reference

Delusion of Reference Delusion of reference is a type of delusion where individuals believe that insignificant or unrelated events, objects, or gestures have personal significance specifically directed at them. In other words, they interpret neutral stimuli as having a special meaning or relevance to themselves, despite there being no logical connection. For example, they may […]

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Delusion of Poverty

Delusion of Poverty Delusion of poverty is a type of delusion where individuals firmly believe, despite evidence to the contrary, that they are financially destitute or impoverished. This belief is typically irrational and persistent, leading individuals to perceive themselves as being in dire financial straits even when they have sufficient resources to meet their needs. […]

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Delusion of Persecution

Delusion of Persecution Delusion of persecution is a type of delusion where individuals believe, despite evidence to the contrary, that they are being targeted, harassed, or harmed by others. This belief is often irrational and unfounded, leading individuals to interpret neutral or benign events as evidence of malevolent intentions directed towards them. Delusions of persecution […]

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Delusion of Infidelity

Delusion of Infidelity Delusion of infidelity is a specific type of delusion where individuals firmly believe, despite evidence to the contrary, that their romantic partner is unfaithful or engaging in extramarital affairs. This belief is typically irrational and persistent, leading the individual to interpret innocent or ambiguous behaviors as evidence of betrayal. Delusions of infidelity […]

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Delusion of Grandeur

Delusion of Grandeur Delusion of grandeur is a type of delusion characterized by an exaggerated sense of self-importance, power, knowledge, or identity. Individuals experiencing this delusion may believe that they possess exceptional abilities, talents, or qualities that set them apart from others. They may perceive themselves as being endowed with special powers, divine attributes, or […]

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Delusion of Control

Delusion of Control Delusion of control is a specific type of delusion where individuals believe that their thoughts, feelings, or actions are being controlled by an external force, person, or agency. This belief is firmly held despite evidence to the contrary and can lead individuals to attribute their own thoughts or behaviors to external influences. […]

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Delirium

Delirium Delirium is a state of acute confusion and disturbance in cognitive function, often characterized by fluctuations in awareness, attention, perception, and memory. It typically develops rapidly over a short period and is commonly associated with underlying medical conditions, intoxication, medication side effects, or withdrawal from substances. Delirium can manifest as disorientation, hallucinations, agitation, incoherent […]

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Nihilistic Delusion

Nihilistic Delusion A nihilistic delusion is a psychiatric symptom characterized by the false belief that oneself, others, or the world, in general, does not exist, has ceased to exist, or lacks meaning or purpose. Individuals experiencing nihilistic delusions may believe that they are dead, that the world has ended, that they no longer exist as […]

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Déjà Pensé

Déjà Pensé Déjà pensé, which translates to “already thought” in English, is a phenomenon where individuals experience the sensation of having already thought about or considered a particular idea or concept, even though they may have no conscious memory of doing so. It is similar to déjà vu but specifically pertains to thoughts or mental […]

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Noesis

Noesis Noesis” typically refers to the cognitive process of understanding or intellect. In the context of mental illness, the term “noesis” is not commonly used as a specific sign or symptom. Mental health disorders are more commonly associated with disturbances or impairments in cognition rather than with the term “noesis” itself. If you’re referring to […]

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Déjà Entendu

Déjà Entendu Déjà entendu refers to the sensation of hearing something previously encountered, even though the auditory stimulus is happening for the first time. It’s akin to déjà vu but involves auditory experiences rather than visual ones. This phenomenon can manifest as a feeling of familiarity or recognition of sounds, voices, music, or spoken words, […]

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Nominal Aphasia

Nominal Aphasia Nominal aphasia, also known as anomic aphasia or anomia, is a language disorder characterized by difficulty in recalling words or names. It is a type of aphasia where individuals have trouble finding the right words to express themselves, despite having intact comprehension and the ability to form coherent sentences. This difficulty in word […]

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Critical Judgment

Critical Judgment Critical judgment refers to the ability to evaluate, analyze, and assess information or situations objectively and rationally. It involves the capacity to make reasoned decisions, discern between relevant and irrelevant factors, and consider different perspectives or viewpoints. Critical judgment is an essential cognitive skill that helps individuals navigate complex situations, solve problems, and […]

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Conversion Symptoms

Conversion Symptoms Conversion symptoms, also known as functional neurological symptoms or conversion disorder, refer to the manifestation of neurological-like symptoms that cannot be explained by underlying medical conditions or pathophysiological mechanisms. These symptoms often resemble those of neurological disorders but lack identifiable organic causes. Conversion symptoms are believed to arise from psychological distress or unresolved […]

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Constricted Affect

Constricted Affect Constricted affect refers to a restricted range or intensity of emotional expression that is noticeably reduced compared to what is typical or expected for a given situation. Individuals with constricted affect may display limited facial expressions, vocal tone, or body language, conveying a diminished capacity to express or experience emotions. This restriction in […]

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Constipation

Constipation Constipation refers to infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools, often associated with hard, dry stools that are difficult to eliminate. It can result from various factors, including inadequate dietary fiber intake, dehydration, lack of physical activity, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Constipation as a Symptom of Mental Illness […]

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Confabulation

Confabulation Confabulation is a phenomenon characterized by the production of false or distorted memories or information without the conscious intention to deceive. Individuals who confabulate may provide fabricated or inaccurate accounts of past events, experiences, or personal details, often in a sincere and confident manner. Confabulation can occur spontaneously or in response to memory deficits, […]

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Cerea Flexibilitas

Cerea Flexibilitas Cerea flexibilitas, also known as waxy flexibility, is a neurological phenomenon characterized by the abnormal maintenance of body positions or postures when they are passively manipulated by an examiner. Individuals with cerea flexibilitas exhibit increased muscle tone and stiffness, causing their limbs to remain in fixed positions for extended periods without active resistance. […]

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Catatonic Stupor

Catatonic Stupor Catatonic stupor is a state of profound psychomotor retardation characterized by immobility, mutism, and unresponsiveness to external stimuli. Individuals experiencing catatonic stupor may appear motionless and withdrawn, with markedly reduced spontaneous movement, speech, and interaction with their surroundings. This state of extreme psychomotor inhibition can resemble a coma-like state, although individuals remain conscious […]

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Nymphomania”

Nymphomania” “Nymphomania” is an outdated and controversial term that historically referred to excessive or uncontrollable sexual desire or behavior in women. It was often used pejoratively and is no longer considered a valid medical diagnosis in modern psychiatry or psychology. The term “hypersexuality” or “compulsive sexual behavior” is now used to describe similar patterns of […]

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Obsession

Obsession “Obsession” refers to persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, urges, or images that cause significant distress or anxiety. These thoughts are difficult to control and often interfere with daily life, relationships, and functioning. Obsessions are a hallmark feature of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) but can also occur in other mental health conditions. Obsession as a Sign […]

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Olfactory Hallucination

Olfactory Hallucination “Olfactory hallucination” refers to the perception of smell in the absence of any actual external odor or stimulus. Unlike normal perceptions of smell, which result from the detection of odor molecules by the olfactory system, olfactory hallucinations are false perceptions that can occur in various mental health and neurological conditions. Olfactory Hallucination as […]

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Somnolence

Meaning of “Somnolence” “Somnolence” refers to a state of drowsiness or sleepiness, where individuals feel a strong desire to sleep or difficulty staying awake during normal waking hours. It is characterized by a general feeling of tiredness, reduced alertness, and a tendency to fall asleep easily. Somnolence as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness […]

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Catatonic Rigidity

Catatonic Rigidity Catatonic rigidity is a state of muscular stiffness or immobility that is characteristic of catatonia, a neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with various mental health disorders. Individuals experiencing catatonic rigidity may exhibit a marked increase in muscle tone, leading to stiffness and resistance to passive movement. This rigidity can affect multiple muscle groups and may […]

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Catatonic Posturing

Catatonic Posturing Catatonic posturing refers to the adoption of rigid and abnormal body positions or poses, often maintained for prolonged periods without any apparent purpose. Individuals experiencing catatonic posturing may hold their limbs or torso in unusual positions, such as remaining frozen in a stiffened posture, assuming awkward or contorted positions, or exhibiting repetitive and […]

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Overactivity

Overactivity “Overactivity” refers to excessive or heightened levels of physical or mental activity that exceed what is considered typical or appropriate for a given situation. It can manifest in various forms, including increased energy levels, restlessness, impulsivity, and a reduced ability to sit still or focus on tasks. Overactivity as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Catatonic Excitement

Catatonic Excitement Catatonic excitement is a state of hyperactivity and agitation characterized by excessive and purposeless motor activity. Individuals experiencing catatonic excitement may display frenzied movements, restlessness, i , and erratic behavior. This state contrasts with catatonic stupor, where individuals exhibit immobility and reduced responsiveness. Catatonic Excitement as a Sign of Mental Illness Catatonic excitement […]

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Overvalued Idea

Overvalued Idea An “overvalued idea” refers to a belief or conviction that is strongly held by an individual, often to an excessive or irrational degree. Unlike delusions, which are firmly held beliefs that are not based in reality and are resistant to change despite evidence to the contrary, overvalued ideas are less extreme but still […]

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Catatonia

Catatonia Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by a range of motor abnormalities that can include immobility (catatonic stupor), excessive motor activity (catatonic excitement), negativism (resistance to instructions or attempts to move), mutism (lack of verbal response), rigidity, posturing, and echolalia (repetitive mimicking of speech). These symptoms may fluctuate in severity and can significantly impair […]

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Panic

Panic “Panic” is an overwhelming and intense feeling of anxiety or fear that arises suddenly and unexpectedly. It is characterized by a sense of impending doom, extreme discomfort, and a strong urge to escape or find safety. Panic can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, […]

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Paramnesia

Paramnesia “Paramnesia” refers to a distortion of memory or a phenomenon where an individual experiences inaccuracies or distortions in their perception of time, space, or recognition of familiar places or people. It involves memory errors or disturbances that may lead to confusion between reality and fantasy, or difficulty distinguishing between memories of events that actually […]

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Paranoid Delusions

Paranoid Delusions “Paranoid delusions” refer to false beliefs or suspicions that others are intending harm, conspiring against, or plotting to harm oneself. These beliefs are firmly held despite lack of evidence or logical reasoning. Paranoid delusions can significantly impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships, leading to distress and impaired functioning. Paranoid Delusions as […]

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Paranoid Ideation

Paranoid Ideation “Paranoid ideation” refers to thoughts, ideas, or beliefs that are characterized by suspicion, mistrust, or a sense of persecution by others, without the presence of fixed false beliefs (delusions). Unlike paranoid delusions, paranoid ideation involves suspicious thoughts that may be transient or less firmly held but still significantly impact an individual’s perception of […]

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Perception

Perception “Perception” refers to the way individuals interpret and make sense of sensory information from their environment. This includes how they perceive sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and tactile sensations. Perception involves the brain’s processing of sensory inputs to create a coherent understanding of the world around us. Perception as a Sign and Symptom of Mental […]

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Persecutory Delusion

Persecutory Delusion A “persecutory delusion” is a false belief held by an individual that they are being targeted, harassed, conspired against, or persecuted by others. These beliefs are typically unfounded and not based on reality, but individuals with persecutory delusions firmly believe in their validity despite lack of evidence. Persecutory delusions can cause significant distress, […]

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Perseveration

Perseveration “Perseveration” refers to the repetitive or persistent repetition of a particular response, idea, or behavior, even when it is no longer relevant or appropriate to the current context. It involves an inability to switch or stop the focus on a particular topic or task, often despite efforts to redirect or change the conversation or […]

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Phobia

Phobia A phobia is an intense and irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity. Phobias involve a persistent fear that is excessive and disproportionate to any actual threat posed by the feared stimulus. Individuals with phobias often go to great lengths to avoid the object of their fear, which can significantly impact their […]

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Physiological Disturbances Associated with Mood

Physiological Disturbances Associated with Mood “Physiological disturbances associated with mood” refer to changes in bodily functions and processes that occur alongside fluctuations in emotional states. These disturbances can manifest as alterations in sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, and overall physical well-being. They are often linked to mood disorders and can significantly impact an individual’s daily […]

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Posturing

Posturing “Posturing” in the context of mental illness refers to abnormal or rigid body postures assumed by individuals that do not serve any functional purpose. These postures are often unusual, fixed, and maintained for extended periods, sometimes without awareness or control. Posturing can manifest in various forms and may be indicative of underlying neurological or […]

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Poverty of Content of Speech

Poverty of Content of Speech “Poverty of content of speech” refers to a reduction in the amount or richness of spontaneous speech output. Individuals experiencing this symptom may speak in a manner that is sparse, vague, lacking in detail, or devoid of meaningful content. Their speech may be brief, repetitive, and fail to convey sufficient […]

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Poverty of Speech

Poverty of Speech “Poverty of speech” refers to a reduction in the amount or frequency of speech output. Individuals experiencing this symptom may speak very little, use few words or phrases, and generally communicate in a sparse or minimalistic manner. This reduction in speech can be characterized by brief responses, limited elaboration on topics, and […]

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Pressure of Speech

Pressure of Speech “Pressure of speech” is a symptom characterized by an accelerated rate and volume of speech that exceeds the normal pace and amount of verbal communication. Individuals experiencing pressure of speech may speak rapidly, forcefully, and with a sense of urgency. They may also exhibit a heightened flow of ideas, jumping from one […]

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Prosopagnosia

Prosopagnosia “Prosopagnosia” is a neurological condition characterized by the inability to recognize faces, including familiar faces of family members, friends, or oneself. People with prosopagnosia may have difficulty distinguishing between different faces or identifying individuals solely by their facial features, despite having normal vision and intellect. This condition can range from mild to severe and […]

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Pseudodementia

Pseudodementia “Pseudodementia” refers to a condition in which a person exhibits symptoms resembling dementia, such as memory loss, cognitive impairment, and difficulties with concentration and decision-making. However, unlike true dementia, pseudodementia is reversible and typically occurs in the context of another mental health condition, often depression. The term “pseudo” indicates that the dementia-like symptoms are […]

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Pseudologia Fantastica

Pseudologia Fantastica “Pseudologia fantastica” refers to a psychiatric condition characterized by compulsive or pathological lying. Individuals with this condition fabricate elaborate stories that are often fantastical, exaggerated, or implausible. The lies told by someone with pseudologia fantastica are not motivated by tangible benefits like financial gain but rather stem from a deep-seated need for attention, […]

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Psychomotor Agitation

Psychomotor Agitation “Psychomotor agitation” refers to a state of excessive physical and mental activity that is often characterized by restlessness, increased movement, and an inability to sit still or relax. Individuals experiencing psychomotor agitation may exhibit pacing, fidgeting, hand wringing, tapping, or constantly changing positions. This condition can also include rapid speech, impulsiveness, and heightened […]

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Psychosis

Psychosis “Psychosis” is a severe mental health condition characterized by a loss of contact with reality. Individuals experiencing psychosis may have impaired perceptions of reality, which can include hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there) and delusions (strongly held false beliefs). Psychosis often interferes with a person’s ability to think clearly, manage emotions, […]

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Reality Testing

Reality Testing “Reality testing” refers to the cognitive ability to distinguish between internal experiences (thoughts, feelings, and perceptions) and external reality. It involves assessing whether one’s perceptions, beliefs, or interpretations correspond to objective reality or if they are distorted or influenced by internal factors, such as emotions or mental health conditions. Reality Testing as a […]

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Restricted Affect

Restricted Affect “Restricted affect” refers to a limited range or intensity of emotional expression. Individuals with restricted affect may display a noticeable lack of emotional responsiveness, with emotions appearing shallow, subdued, or muted compared to what would be expected in response to situations or interactions. Restricted Affect as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness […]

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Retrospective Falsification

Retrospective Falsification “Retrospective falsification” refers to a cognitive phenomenon where individuals retrospectively alter or distort their memories of past events. This alteration may involve changing details, perspectives, or interpretations of what occurred, often influenced by current beliefs, emotions, or external influences. Retrospective Falsification as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Retrospective falsification can be […]

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Rigidity

Rigidity “Rigidity” in the context of mental health refers to a psychological state or behavioral pattern characterized by inflexibility, resistance to change, and adherence to strict routines or beliefs. It involves a lack of adaptability in thinking, emotions, or behavior, often resulting in difficulties in adjusting to new situations or perspectives. Rigidity as a Sign […]

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Ritual

Ritual A “ritual” in the context of mental health refers to a repetitive behavior or action performed according to a set pattern, often with specific rules or sequences. Rituals may serve various purposes, such as reducing anxiety, preventing perceived harm, or maintaining a sense of control. However, in the context of mental illness, rituals can […]

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Satyriasis

Satyriasis In the realm of mental health, satyriasis describes: Satyriasis as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Satyriasis is not recognized as a distinct mental disorder in modern psychiatric classifications like the DSM-5. However, it may be considered under broader categories such as: Characteristics of Satyriasis Treatment and Management Effective management of satyriasis typically […]

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Selective Inattention

Selective Inattention “Selective inattention” refers to the phenomenon where an individual consciously or unconsciously ignores specific stimuli or information while focusing on other stimuli. This selective process often occurs due to emotional or psychological reasons, such as avoiding distressing thoughts or feelings. Selective Inattention as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Selective inattention can […]

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Sensorium

Sensorium The term “sensorium” refers to the sum of an individual’s sensory apparatus, including the brain and the central nervous system, responsible for receiving, processing, and interpreting sensory information. It encompasses the ability to perceive and respond to sensory stimuli from the environment. Sensorium as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness When discussing sensorium […]

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Sensory Aphasia

Sensory Aphasia “Sensory aphasia,” also known as receptive aphasia or Wernicke’s aphasia, is a language disorder characterized by the inability to understand spoken or written language. This condition occurs despite the individual typically being able to speak fluently, though their speech may lack meaning or coherence due to the inability to comprehend language. Sensory Aphasia […]

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Cataplexy

Cataplexy Cataplexy is a neurological condition characterized by sudden and temporary loss of muscle tone or control, leading to episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis. These episodes are often triggered by strong emotions such as laughter, excitement, or stress, and can range from mild weakness to complete collapse. Cataplexy is most commonly associated with narcolepsy, […]

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Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, is a sleep disorder characterized by complex behaviors that occur during deep sleep, typically during the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stages of sleep. These behaviors can range from simple actions like sitting up in bed to more complex activities such as walking, talking, or even driving a car, all […]

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Blunted Affect

Blunted Affect Blunted affect refers to a reduction or restriction in the outward display of emotional expression. Individuals with blunted affect may exhibit a lack of emotional responsiveness or show minimal variation in facial expressions, tone of voice, or body language, even in situations that typically evoke strong emotions. This reduction in emotional expression can […]

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Social Phobia

Social Phobia Social phobia, also known as social anxiety disorder, is an anxiety disorder characterized by an intense fear of social situations or performance situations where individuals feel they may be scrutinized or judged by others. People with social phobia often fear embarrassment, humiliation, or rejection, leading to avoidance of social interactions or significant distress […]

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Somatic Delusion

Somatic Delusion A somatic delusion, also known as a delusion of bodily sensation or bodily delusion, is a false belief that involves the body or bodily functions. Individuals experiencing somatic delusions firmly believe that something is abnormal or wrong with their body, despite medical reassurance and evidence to the contrary. These beliefs are not culturally […]

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Blocking

Blocking Blocking is a cognitive phenomenon characterized by a sudden interruption or cessation of thought or speech, where an individual experiences a temporary inability to recall information or continue a train of thought. It often feels as though the mind has gone blank, with thoughts or words seemingly inaccessible despite efforts to retrieve them. Blocking […]

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Somatic Hallucination

Somatic Hallucination A somatic hallucination is a type of hallucination that involves perceiving a physical sensation in the body that has no external cause. Unlike somatic delusions, which are false beliefs about the body, somatic hallucinations are actual sensory experiences that feel real to the person experiencing them. These sensations can include feelings of pain, […]

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Somnambulism

Somnambulism Somnambulism or sleepwalking, is a sleep disorder involving complex behaviors performed during deep sleep. Somnambulism, or sleepwalking, is a sleep disorder where individuals engage in activities that are typically performed during wakefulness while they are in a state of deep sleep. These activities can range from simple actions like sitting up in bed to […]

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Specific Disturbances in Form of Thought

Specific Disturbances in Form of Thought “Specific disturbances in form of thought” refer to various disruptions in the way a person organizes and expresses their thoughts. These disturbances affect the coherence, flow, and logical structure of thoughts rather than the content itself. People experiencing these disturbances may have difficulty communicating clearly, organizing their thoughts logically, […]

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Stereotypy

Stereotypy Stereotypy refers to repetitive, non-functional movements or behaviors that are consistent in form and occur regularly. These actions are typically rhythmic and purposeless, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating words or phrases. Unlike habits or tics, stereotypies are often more persistent and can be difficult to interrupt. Stereotypy as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Stupor

Stupor Stupor refers to a state of near-unresponsiveness or extreme lack of cognitive awareness and activity. It is characterized by a significant reduction in alertness, responsiveness to stimuli, and voluntary movement. Here’s a detailed description: Stupor as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Stupor can manifest as a symptom in various mental health conditions, […]

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Synesthesia

Synesthesia Synesthesia is a neurological condition where stimulation of one sensory or cognitive pathway leads to automatic, involuntary experiences in a second sensory or cognitive pathway. For example, a person with synesthesia might see colors when they hear music or taste something when they read. Synesthesia as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness Synesthesia […]

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Systemized Delusion

Systemized Delusion A systemized delusion is a type of delusional belief that is highly detailed and elaborately constructed, often with a complex and coherent narrative. Unlike more fragmented or isolated delusions, systemized delusions are well-organized and encompass a range of related beliefs that are intricately interwoven. The individual firmly believes in this constructed reality, despite […]

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Tactile (Haptic) Hallucination

Tactile (Haptic) Hallucination A tactile (haptic) hallucination is a type of sensory experience where an individual feels physical sensations on or within their body that have no external cause. These sensations can include feelings of being touched, pressure, itching, burning, or even the movement of objects on or under the skin. The experiences are vivid […]

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Tangentiality

Tangentiality Tangentiality refers to a communication disorder where an individual’s responses are only loosely or indirectly related to the questions or topics at hand. The person’s thoughts and speech wander off-topic, never returning to the original point. Instead of answering questions directly, their responses may veer off into unrelated areas. Tangentiality as a Sign and […]

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Tension

Tension In the realm of mental health, “tension” refers to a state of mental or emotional strain that arises from challenging or stressful circumstances. It can manifest physically through symptoms like muscle tightness, headaches, and fatigue, while emotionally, it may lead to feelings of anxiety, irritability, or unease. Tension as a Sign and Symptom of […]

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Bizarre Delusions

Bizarre Delusions Bizarre delusions are false beliefs that are highly implausible or impossible in reality. These delusions typically involve scenarios or ideas that are markedly unusual, fantastical, or impossible to occur. Despite being unfounded and often bizarre, individuals experiencing bizarre delusions firmly believe in their truthfulness and may resist logical arguments or evidence to the […]

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Terminal Insomnia

Terminal Insomnia Terminal insomnia, also known as late insomnia or early morning awakening, is a sleep disorder where an individual wakes up earlier than desired and cannot fall back asleep. This results in a shortened sleep duration and often leads to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day. Unlike other forms of […]

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Autotopagnosia

Autotopagnosia Autotopagnosia is a neurological disorder characterized by the inability to localize and identify one’s own body parts or to recognize their spatial relationships. It is a specific type of body schema disorder where individuals have difficulty integrating sensory information about their own bodies. This condition can lead to difficulties in performing everyday tasks that […]

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Thinking

Thinking Thinking refers to the cognitive processes involved in reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, and forming judgments. It includes conscious mental activities such as perception, memory, language, and abstract reasoning. Thinking as Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness While “thinking” per se is not a symptom, disturbances in thinking patterns or cognitive functions can be indicative of […]

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Automatism

Automatism Automatism refers to involuntary, unconscious actions or behaviors that occur without conscious awareness or control. These actions may appear purposeful but are driven by automatic processes rather than deliberate intention. Automatisms can manifest in various forms, including movements, gestures, speech, or complex behaviors. Automatism as a Sign of Mental Illness Automatisms can sometimes be […]

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Thought Broadcasting

Thought Broadcasting “Thought broadcasting” is a psychiatric symptom where individuals believe that their thoughts are being transmitted or broadcasted to others without their consent. It is a form of delusion, specifically categorized under psychotic symptoms. Here’s a detailed description: Thought broadcasting refers to the false belief that one’s thoughts are being projected or transmitted into […]

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Automatic Judgment

Automatic Judgment Automatic judgment refers to the spontaneous and often subconscious process of forming opinions or evaluations about people, situations, or objects without deliberate consideration or reflection. These judgments can be based on implicit biases, stereotypes, or past experiences, influencing perceptions and behavior without conscious awareness. Automatic Judgment as a Sign of Mental Illness Automatic […]

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Thought Insertion

Thought Insertion “Thought insertion” is a psychiatric symptom characterized by the belief that one’s thoughts are not their own but rather inserted into their mind by external forces, often against their will. It is considered a type of delusion and is commonly associated with psychotic disorders, particularly schizophrenia. Here’s a detailed description: Thought insertion refers […]

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Autistic Thinking

Autistic Thinking Autistic thinking refers to cognitive processes or patterns of thought that are characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD may exhibit unique ways of processing information, interpreting the world, and engaging in social interactions. Autistic thinking encompasses various cognitive styles and preferences that differ from neurotypical individuals. Autistic Thinking as a […]

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Thought Withdrawal

Thought Withdrawal “Thought withdrawal” is a psychiatric symptom characterized by the belief that one’s thoughts are being removed from their mind by external forces, against their control or will. It is classified as a delusion and is commonly associated with psychotic disorders, particularly schizophrenia. Here’s an explanation of its meaning and manifestation: Thought withdrawal refers […]

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Auditory Hallucinations

Auditory Hallucinations Auditory hallucinations refer to hearing sounds, voices, or noises that aren’t actually present. These perceptions can occur without any external stimulus and may seem real to the person experiencing them. Auditory hallucinations can vary in intensity, frequency, and content, ranging from whispers to loud voices giving commands or commentary. Auditory Hallucinations as Signs […]

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Tic

Tic “Tic” refers to a sudden, repetitive, non-rhythmic movement or sound that can be involuntary or semi-voluntary. It is typically brief, rapid, and occurs intermittently. Tics can manifest as motor tics (involving movement) or vocal tics (involving sounds or words). While tics themselves are not mental illnesses, they are often associated with certain mental health […]

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Attention

Attention Attention is like a spotlight in the mind. It helps us focus on specific things while filtering out distractions. Whether it’s studying for an exam, listening to a friend, or driving a car, attention allows us to concentrate on what’s important. Attention and Mental Health In mental health, attentional issues can arise as symptoms […]

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Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania “Trichotillomania” is a mental health disorder characterized by recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas of the body, resulting in noticeable hair loss. It falls under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Here’s a detailed description: […]

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Astereognosia

Astereognosia Astereognosia is a condition where someone can’t recognize objects through touch alone. Even with their eyes closed, they struggle to identify items just by feeling them. This happens because of problems in the brain’s ability to process sensory information, especially in the part of the brain responsible for integrating what we touch. Astereognosia and […]

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True Insight

True Insight “True insight” in the context of mental illness refers to the ability of an individual to accurately perceive and understand their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as the consequences of these behaviors. It indicates a realistic awareness of one’s mental health condition and its impact on oneself and others. Here’s a […]

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Twilight State

Twilight State A “twilight state” in the context of mental illness refers to a condition where an individual experiences altered consciousness, often characterized by a mixture of wakefulness and sleep-like states. It’s a transitional state between wakefulness and full unconsciousness, where perception, awareness, and responsiveness to external stimuli may be impaired or altered. Here’s a […]

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Appropriate Affect

Appropriate Affect Appropriate affect refers to the display of emotional responses that are considered culturally and situationally appropriate to the context. In other words, it involves expressing emotions that match the content and tone of the situation or conversation. For example, smiling during a happy occasion or showing sadness at a funeral would be considered […]

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Unio Mystica

Unio Mystica “Unio Mystica” refers to a mystical or spiritual union, typically described in religious or spiritual contexts where an individual experiences a profound sense of unity with the divine or with the universe. It is not considered a sign or symptom of mental illness but rather a transcendent or mystical experience that is often […]

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Verbigeration

Verbigeration “Verbigeration” is a term used in psychiatry to describe the compulsive repetition of specific words or phrases. It is often associated with neurological or psychiatric disorders where verbal communication is affected. Here’s a description of verbigeration as a sign and symptom of mental illness, along with a list of conditions where it can be […]

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Apperception

Apperception Apperception refers to the process of interpreting and understanding new experiences or information based on one’s existing knowledge, beliefs, and experiences. It involves the integration of new stimuli with pre-existing mental frameworks, allowing individuals to make sense of their perceptions and form coherent understandings of the world around them. Apperception as a Sign and […]

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Visual Agnosia

Visual Agnosia “Visual agnosia” is a neurological condition where an individual has difficulty recognizing or identifying objects, even though their vision is otherwise intact. It is not typically considered a sign or symptom of mental illness but rather a perceptual disorder related to brain dysfunction. Here’s a description of visual agnosia and its contexts: Visual […]

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