Mental Health A-Z

Also known as circulatory disease or heart disease. Any disease of the circulatory system, namely the heart (cardio) or blood vessels (vascular). Includes heart attack, angina, stroke and peripheral vascular disease.

A person who has a support role for someone living with a mental health difficulty. They may be a family member, friend or have another close relationship with the person. Also referred to as a ‘support person’.

A diverse group of diseases, such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes and arthritis, which tend to be long-lasting and persistent in their symptoms or development.

The presence of two separate illnesses at the same time in a person, such as co-existing mental illness and substance use problems. This is the preferred term used by the Commission, rather than dual diagnosis.

Any characteristic that a person has that acts as a barrier to the cognitive (or thinking) process. Can be used to describe poor mental function, confusion, forgetfulness and other mental impairments.

The presence of one or more illnesses (or diseases) in a person, in addition to a primary disease or disorder; for example, chronic lung disease and diabetes.

A fulfilling life where people living with a mental health difficulty can expect the same rights, opportunities and health as the wider community. It is a life enriched with close connections to family and friends, supported by good health, wellbeing and health care. It means having a safe, stable and secure home and having something to do each day that provides meaning and purpose, whether this is a job, supporting others or volunteering.

A range of activities undertaken by the National Mental Health Commission to pilot the best method through which people can talk regularly with the Commission about their daily lives and what may help or hinder them to live a contributing life.

The system that involves police, courts of law, juvenile justice, prison and corrections facilities, probation and parole, and deals with criminal matters and people charged with an offence.