Glossary

Abnormal variability, with repeated, rapid, and abrupt shifts in affective expression. Fluctuating rapidly between extremes, unrelated to external stimuli. For instance, shifting rapidly from laughing to tearful.

The quality or state of being lazy, sluggish, or indifferent.

The part of the mind that retains information permanently or nearly so; a system in the brain that can store and retrieve vast amounts of information on a relatively enduring basis.

A disturbance of thinking shown by speech in which ideas shift from one subject to another that is unrelated or minimally related to the first. Statements that lack a meaningful relationship may be juxtaposed, or speech may shift suddenly from one frame of reference to another.

The speaker gives no indication of being aware of the disconnectedness, contradictions, or illogicality of speech. When severe may lead to disorganised and incoherent speech. Documented in thought form/flow section of MSE.

Mournful, dismal, or gloomy, especially in an affected, exaggerated, or unrelieved manner.