1.
mental disorder; psychiatric disorder; mental illness
A clinically recognized condition that affects thinking, mood, perception, or behavior. The standard term used in Japanese medical, legal, and welfare contexts.
精神障害の治療を受ける。
To receive treatment for a mental disorder.
精神障害への理解が社会に広がりつつある。
Understanding of mental disorders is gradually spreading in society.
精神障害を持つ人が安心して暮らせる社会を目指すべきだ。
We should aim for a society where people with mental disorders can live with peace of mind.
A compound of 精神 (mind, spirit) and 障害 (disorder, disability). This is the standard clinical and legal term for mental disorders in Japan, used in legislation such as the 精神保健福祉法 (Mental Health and Welfare Act).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 精神障害者: person with a mental disorder
- 精神障害者保健福祉手帳: mental disability certificate
- 精神障害の診断: diagnosis of a mental disorder
- 精神障害を抱える: to suffer from a mental disorder
RELATED TERMS:
- 精神疾患: psychiatric illness — more specifically medical/clinical
- 心の病: illness of the mind — softer, more euphemistic expression
- 発達障害: developmental disorder
- 知的障害: intellectual disability