Psychiatry Dictionary
Some concepts used in psychiatry and psychotherapy are also frequently encountered in everyday language. However, the same word can have different meanings in everyday language and in clinical usage. For this reason, I have compiled this glossary with the aim of explaining concepts frequently used in the fields of psychiatry and psychotherapy in clear and scientific language.
Understanding a concept does not mean that a person is diagnosing themselves or someone else. Psychiatric symptoms are assessed in conjunction with the person’s history, the difficulties they are experiencing, the duration, severity and impact on daily life.
P
Panic Attack
An episode in which intense fear or discomfort rapidly escalates, with possible symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, dizziness, fear of losing control, or fear of death. By itself, it does not mean a diagnosis of panic disorder.
Panic Disorder
An anxiety disorder in which recurrent unexpected panic attacks are followed by persistent concern about additional attacks and/or significant behavior changes related to the attacks.
Paranoia
A broad term used to describe thoughts and beliefs involving suspicious, threatening, or malevolent interpretations of others' intentions. By itself, it does not indicate a specific diagnosis.
Perfectionism
Can be a trait associated with high standards and strong sensitivity to mistakes. When standards become rigid, it may be linked to difficulties such as self-criticism, anxiety, and procrastination.
Performance Anxiety
Refers to experiencing intense anxiety before or during a performance situation in which one may be evaluated by others.
Phobia
Refers to marked, persistent, and disproportionate fear triggered by a specific object or situation.
Procrastination
The tendency to unnecessarily delay a task that should be done, despite knowing there may be negative consequences. It does not by itself mean laziness.
Psychotherapy
A professional treatment process conducted within a specific theoretical framework and therapeutic relationship to understand and change emotional, cognitive, behavioral, or interpersonal difficulties.