General Medical Terms
The name a doctor gives to a health condition after an exam or tests.
Diagnosis
A health condition that affects thinking, mood, or behavior.
Mental Illness
A drug used to help treat symptoms or illness.
Medication
Actions a person takes to care for their physical and mental health.
Self-care
Staying overnight in a hospital or treatment center.
Inpatient
A change in the body or mind that a person feels, like pain, sadness, or dizziness.
Symptom
A mental health condition that causes ongoing sadness, low energy, or loss of interest.
Depression
Talking with a trained professional to help manage thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
Therapy
Healthy ways to handle stress, symptoms, or emotions.
Coping Skills
Getting care without staying overnight.
Outpatient
A condition that lasts a long time or may not go away completely.
Chronic
Strong feelings of worry, fear, or nervousness that are hard to control.
Anxiety
An unwanted reaction to medication, such as sleepiness or upset stomach.
Side Effect
Learning to live a meaningful life while managing symptoms.
Recovery
When a patient is allowed to leave a hospital or program.
Discharge
A condition that starts suddenly and may be short-term.
Acute
Trouble telling what is real and what is not, such as hearing voices or having strong false beliefs.
Psychosis
Taking medication or following treatment as prescribed.
Compliance/Adherence
When symptoms return or get worse after improving.
Relapse
When a provider sends a patient to another specialist for care.
Referral
Care or steps taken to help improve a health problem.
Treatment
A mental health condition that affects emotions, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Mood Disorder
A person who gives healthcare, like a doctor, nurse, or therapist.
Provider
People who help, such as family, friends, or care providers.
Support System
A future visit to check progress after treatment.
Follow-up