Chronic
Continuing over a long period of time or recurring frequently. Chronic conditions often begin inconspicuously and symptoms are less pronounced than in acute conditions
Cognitive Therapy
A treatment method based on the theory that negative thinking, perception and attitude cause psychological disturbances, especially depression, and that these problems can be corrected through rational understanding.
Combat Fatigue*
Along with “battle fatigue” and “shell-shock”, this is an outmoded term of post-traumatic stress disorder. If used, “battle fatigue,” “combat fatigue” and “shell-shock” are misleading in that they lead people to believe that PTSD is a condition arising only from the trauma of war. Actually, it is a condition much more common to victims of accidents, rape and other forms of domestic violence.
Compulsion
An insistent, repetitive and unwanted urge to perform an act as a means of relieving anxiety. However ritualistic behavior, such as repeated hand washing, is not related realistically to what the person is trying to avoid.
Confidentiality
The ethical principle that a physician may not reveal any information disclosed in the course of medical treatment.
Crack
A street name for rock-like pieces or pellet-sized chips of cocaine. Crack is smoked, creating an intensely euphoric feeling in the user within 4 to 6 seconds, followed by an overwhelming low period within 5 to 7 minutes. Crack is more addictive than heroin and produces many side effects, including a dramatic rise in blood pressure, heart rate and temperature; narrowing of the arteries to restrict blood flow to the heart, possibly causing a heart attack; erratic and ineffective heart beat, possibly resulting in death; and respiratory failure.
Crazy*
Along with numerous terms—such as “nuts,” “wacko,” “looney” or bonkers—these are generic, insulting terms used to describe mentally ill people or people who are acting in an eccentric manner. Not only are they denigrating, they are also inaccurate catch-all terms, lumping all mental illnesses together. Specific mental illnesses have specific symptoms, and specific names.
