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Glossary of Mental Health Terms
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Glossary of Terms – B
To view this glossary simply click on the corresponding letter below.
Please note – this is not an exhaustive list, but includes some fo the terminology commonly used in the assessment and treatment of mental illness. The terms in this glossary were derived from the medical glossary of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and are used with the Centre's permission
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Barbiturates – A class of drugs that depress the central nervous system and depress respiration, change heart rate, and decrease blood pressure. Once used to promote sedation and sleep, these drugs have been replaced by the benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines – a group of y medications that share a similar chemical structure. Some common benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety are diazepam (Valium®) and lorazepam (Ativan®). Some common benzodiazepines used to treat insomnia are Dalmane(Flurazepam) Doral (Quazepam) or
Halcion(Triazolam). If taken daily for any longer than a few weeks, most benzodiazepines can cause physical dependence
Bereavement – Grief or depression that accompanies a great personal loss, usually of a loved one. Depressed mood at this time is considered normal, although the individual may seek professional help for associated symptoms of insomnia or lack of appetite. If symptoms last over 2 months, the person may be diagnosed with Major Depression
Biogenic amines – A term used to describe chemical substances that alter brain activity and are also known as "neurotransmitters". They include dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and serotonin. Biogenic amines are the targets of drugs used to treat depression and related disorders.
Bipolar disorder – also known as manic–depression, includes the occurrence of one or more manic episodes and usually the occurrence of one or more major depressive episodes.
Borderline Personality Disorder- a mental illness characterized by instability in mood, self-image, identity and interpersonal relationships and often accompanied by suicidality or self-harm.
