Psychoneurosis

Psychoneurosis (also known as neurosis) is a class of functional mental disorders involving distress but neither delusions nor hallucinations, whereby behavior is not outside socially acceptable norms. It is also known as psychoneurotic disorder.

Definition

Psychoneurosis is a term that was used in psychiatry to denote a mental disorder that does not involve a break with reality, in contrast to psychosis. The term was first used by the Scottish psychiatrist William Cullen in 1769, referring to "disorders of sense and motion" caused by a "general affection of the nervous system". For him, it described various nervous disorders and symptoms that could not be explained physiologically.

Types

There are several types of psychoneurosis:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety disorder
• Hysteria
• Phobia
• Depression
• Neurasthenia

Symptoms

Symptoms of psychoneurosis can vary greatly depending on the specific type of disorder, but they generally involve feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress. The individual may also have physical symptoms such as sweating, rapid heart rate, and more.

Treatment

Treatment for psychoneurosis often involves psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy. Medications may also be used, particularly for disorders such as OCD and anxiety disorders.

See also

• Mental disorder
• Psychiatry
• Psychotherapy

Psychoneurosis Resources
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