Mental Health Terms to Know:

Therapist/counselor

A mental health professional trained to help people understand and cope with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They may assess and/or diagnose mental health conditions. They do not prescribe medications.

Psychiatrist (doctor)/Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner 

A licensed medical professional who has completed additional psychiatric training. They can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe and manage medication.

Stress

A feeling of emotional or physical tension in response to being overwhelmed or unable to cope with mental or emotional pressure.

Coping skill

A strategy to help you deal with difficult situations or help manage unpleasant emotions, thoughts, or behaviors.

Trauma

An emotional response to a disturbing, scary, or shocking experience that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope.