by the pines

Definition Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is an imaging study that uses radioactive materials injected through a vein that will pass into the brain generating a high-resolution brain image. Description SPECT is used to diagnose head trauma, epilepsy, dementia, and cerebrovascular disease. Development of a radiotracer called Tc99m label has increased the resolution of [...]

Definition Shared psychotic disorder, a rare and atypical psychotic disorder, occurs when an otherwise healthy person (secondary partner) begins believing the delusions of someone with whom they have a close relationship (primary partner) who is already suffering from a psychotic disorder with prominent delusions. This disorder is also referred to as “folie á deux.” Description [...]

Definition Sexual dysfunction disorders are problems that interfere with the initiation, consummation, or satisfaction with sex. They occur in both men and women and are independent of sexual orientation. Description Probably nowhere in human health do the body and mind interact more than during sex. There are four generally recognized phases of sexual activity, involving [...]

Definition Sertraline is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In the in United States it is sold under the brand name Zoloft. Purpose Sertraline is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Description Serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters, is a brain [...]

Definition Like many childhood concerns, separation anxiety is normal at certain developmental stages. For example, when a child between the ages of eight and 14 months is separated from her mother or other primary caretaker, she may experience distress. This is normal. However, separation anxiety that occurs at later ages is considered a disorder because [...]

Definition Selective mutism is a childhood disorder in which a child does not speak in some social situations although he or she is able to talk normally at other times. Description Selective mutism was first described in the 1870s, at which time it was called “aphasia voluntaria.” This name shows that the absence of speech [...]

Introduction Self-help groups—also called mutual help or mutual aid groups—are composed of peers who share a similar mental, emotional, or physical problem, or who are interested in a focal issue, such as education or parenting. Historically, people banded together to improve their chances for survival by pooling their social and economic resources; however, contemporary groups [...]

Definition Self-control strategies are cognitive and behavioral skills used by individuals to maintain self-motivation and achieve personal goals. Initially the skills may be learned from a therapist, text, or self-help book. However, the individual is responsible for using these skills in real-life situations to produce the desired changes. There are many varieties of self-control strategies. [...]

Definition A seizure is a sudden change in behavior characterized by changes in sensory perception (sense of feeling) or motor activity (movement) due to an abnormal firing of nerve cells in the brain. Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures that may include repetitive muscle jerking called convulsions. Description Seizure disorders and their classification [...]

Definition Sedatives are compounds that cause physiological and mental slowing of the body. They have many legitimate medical uses. However, people who use them improperly may develop symptoms of abuse, dependence, and withdrawal. Several other classes of compounds, including sleep-promoting drugs (hypnotics) and some anti-anxiety (anxiolytic) drugs produce effects and disorders similar to those of [...]