Introduction

INTRODUCTION

The Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders is a valuable source of information for anyone who wants to learn more about mental disorders and their treatments. This collection of approximately 400 entries provides in-depth coverage of specific disorders recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (as well as some disorders not formally recognized as distinct disorders), diagnostic procedures and techniques, therapies, and psychiatric medications. In addition, entries have been included to facilitate understanding of related topics, such as Advance directives, Crisis housing, and Neurotransmitters.

This encyclopedia minimizes medical jargon and uses language that laypersons can understand, while still providing thorough coverage that will benefit health science students as well.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

A preliminary list of mental disorders and related topics was compiled from a wide variety of sources, including professional medical guides and textbooks, as well as consumer guides and encyclopedias. The advisory board, made up of professionals from a variety of health care fields including psychology, psychiatry, pharmacy, and social work, evaluated the topics and made suggestions for inclusion. Final selection of topics to include was made by the advisory board in conjunction with the Gale editor.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTORS

The essays were compiled by experienced medical writers, including physicians, pharmacists, and psychologists. The advisors reviewed the completed essays to ensure that they are appropriate, up-to-date, and accurate.

HOW TO USE THIS BOOK

The Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disordershas been designed with ready reference in mind.

• Straight alphabetical arrangement of topics allows users to locate information quickly.
• Bold-faced terms within entries direct the reader to related articles.
• Cross-references placed throughout the encyclopedia direct readers from alternate names, drug brand names, and related topics to entries.
• A list of key terms is provided where appropriate to define unfamiliar terms or concepts. Aglossary of key terms is also included at the back of Volume II.
• The Resources sections direct readers to additional sources of information on a topic.
• Valuable contact information for organizations and support groups is included with many of the disorder entries.
• A leaf graphic () inserted next to the entry title denotes entries about herbals (such as Ginkgo biloba) or dietary supplements (such as SAMe). These entries have the same rubrics as the medication entries; however, the graphic is to draw attention to the fact that these entries are not about prescription medications.
• ASymptoms list at the back of Volume II has been included not for diagnosis but to reveal patterns in symptoms and disorders and to provide a starting point for research or discussion with a health care provider.
• A comprehensive general index guides readers to all topics mentioned in the text.

GRAPHICS

The Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders contains 100 illustrations, photos, and tables. A color insert in each volume has been included to enhance certain photos shown in the text in black and white.