Definitions by Doc_B

panic disorder 

A mental health condition characterised by recurring panic attacks and subsequent dread and avoidant behaviour in relation to the episodes.

Panic disorder can lead to agorophobia - a disorder which in its severest form renders the individual housebound.

panic disorder by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Schizoaffective disorder

A severe and relatively rare form of mental illness in which a significant mood disorder (depression or bipolar disorder) is interspersed with periods of chronic psychosis even when the person's mood is normal. Less than 0.5% of the population are said to have this condition.

He has schizoaffective disorder, depressive type.

Schizoaffective disorder by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Psychosis

A severe mental disturbance in which the individual loses touch with reality, often experiencing delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (e.g., hearing voices that do not exist).

Mike's psychosis was triggered by smoking too much weed.

Psychosis by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Psychiatrist 

A medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental illnesses. Informally referred to as a "shrink".

She was referred to a psychiatrist on account of her long-standing battle with depression.

Psychiatrist by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Mental health 

A general state of emotional and psychological well-being, as manifest by the ability to cope with and meet the demands of everyday life.

Many people suffering from mental health problems are reluctant to get the help they need.

Mental health by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Special needs 

A term used to refer to someone with either an intellectual disability or, in a broader context, any condition that may pose problems in an educational setting, which can include non-behavioural or learning disorders, e.g., diabetes.

A statement of special needs absolutely does not imply retardation.

Special needs by Doc_B April 14, 2015

Nigga

A common form of address between two or more black (occasionally mixed race) people. White people don't understand why the black community should be able to reclaim a word once used to belittle them.

My nigga.

Nigga by Doc_B April 14, 2015