Category: A
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Adolescence
A chronological period of growth beginning with physical and emotional processes leading to sexual and psychological maturity at about age 12 and ending at a loosely defined time, when the individual achieves independence and social productivity (usually about age 20). This period is associated with rapid physical, psychological, and social changes. The time period…
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Administrative psychiatry
The branch of psychiatry that deals with the organization of mental health services in a program, a hospital, or another facility. Its focus is on management and leadership and concerns the interaction of administration, clinical care, and the attitudes, values, and belief systems of the organization. The branch of psychiatry that deals with the organization…
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Adjustment disorder
A mental disorder in which emotional or behavioral symptoms develop in response to an identifiable stressor. The symptoms, which may include anxiety, depressed mood, and disturbance of conduct (or a combination of these symptoms), are clinically significant in that the distress exceeds what would be expected under the circumstances, or significant impairment in social or occupational…
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Adjunctive
Term used to describe an agent or therapy added to or administered in conjunction with the primary treatment. Referring to a treatment modality that is not essential to the primary therapy regimen but provides additional support. Music therapy serves as an example of an adjunctive form of treatment.
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Addiction psychiatry
An American board of psychiatry and neurology (ABPN) subspecialty that focuses on evaluation and treatment of individuals with alcohol, drug, or other substance-related disorders, and of individuals with dual diagnosis of substance-related and other psychiatric disorders. Addiction psychiatrists often use a combination of medicine and psychotherapy to help patients fight their specific addiction. This can…
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Addiction
Dependence on a chemical substance to the extent that a physiological and/or psychological need is established. This may be manifested by any combination of the following symptoms: tolerance, preoccupation with obtaining and using the substance, use of the substance despite anticipation of probable adverse consequences, repeated efforts to cut down or control substance use, and…
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Adderall
Brand name for amphetamine mixed salts. A form of amphetamine used to treat narcolepsy and attention- deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. In some cases, this drug has been used to treat depression or as an adjunct in the treatment of exogenous obesity. This medication is known as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant.…
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ADC
AIDS dementia complex.
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Adapin
Brand name (now discontinued) for the tricyclic antidepressant drug doxepin. A tricyclic medication used in the treatment of depression. A brand name for doxepin.
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Adam
A street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).