Chapter A–B: Mental Health, Neurodevelopmental & Physical Conditions A

 

Addiction / Substance Use Disorders

Dependence on substances such as alcohol, drugs, or nicotine.
It often involves cravings, loss of control, and continued use despite harm.

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent patterns of:

• Inattention
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsivity

Adjustment Disorders

Emotional or behavioral responses to a stressful life event (e.g., loss, change, trauma).
Symptoms are typically short-term but can impact daily functioning.

Agoraphobia

An anxiety disorder involving fear of places or situations where escape may be difficult.
Often linked to panic attacks.

Alzheimer’s Disease

A progressive neurocognitive disorder affecting:

• Memory
• Thinking
• Behavior
  Most common in older adults.

Amputation

The loss of a limb (arm or leg), often classified as a physical or orthopedic impairment.
May require rehabilitation, prosthetics, and psychological support.

Anorexia Nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by:

• Severe restriction of food intake
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Distorted body image

Anxiety Disorders

A group of conditions causing excessive fear or worry, including:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder

Arthritis

A physical condition involving inflammation of the joints, leading to:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Reduced mobility

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental condition affecting:

• Communication
• Social interaction
• Sensory processing

People with autism may also have strengths in pattern recognition, focus, or memory.

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B

Bipolar Disorder

A mood disorder involving extreme mood changes:

• Mania (high energy, impulsivity)
• Depression (low mood, fatigue)

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

A mental health condition where a person becomes overly concerned with perceived flaws in their appearance, often not noticeable to others.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

A condition involving:

• Intense emotions
• Unstable relationships
• Fear of abandonment
• Impulsive behavior

Brain Injury (Traumatic Brain Injury – TBI)

An acquired injury to the brain that may affect:

• Memory
• Thinking
• Emotions
• Physical functioning

Bulimia Nervosa

An eating disorder involving:

• Episodes of binge eating
• Followed by purging (e.g., vomiting, excessive exercise)

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Key Notes for Your Book / Training

• These conditions may fall under:
  • Mental health
  • Physical disabilities
  • Neurodevelopmental conditions
• Many individuals may experience more than one condition (co-occurring conditions).
• Support may include:
  • Medical treatment
  • Therapy
  • Educational/workplace adjustments
  • Social support

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Reliable Sources

• Job Accommodation Network
• Mind