Glossary

α-adrenergic-antagonists (alpha blockers) are a type of drug called adrenergic antagonists.

β-adrenergic-antagonists (beta blockers) are a type of drug called adrenergic antagonists.

The A to Z or A-Z  method is a form of video modelling, in which videos are used to teach a range of skills to individuals with autism, such as how to interpret facial expressions.

AAT is an acronym for animal-assisted therapy, which is any therapy that involves a person interacting with animals.

ABA is an acronym for applied behaviour analysis. ABA is also sometimes used to refer to some comprehensive, multi-component programmes (especially early intensive behavioural programmes such as the University of California at Los Angeles Young Autism Project model).

Acamprosate is a drug which is used, along with counselling and social support, to help people who have stopped drinking large amounts of alcohol and to help them avoid drinking alcohol again.

Acceptance and commitment therapy is a form of mindfulness-based therapy, theorising that greater well-being can be attained by overcoming negative thoughts and feelings.

Acetyl-l-carnitine is another name for carnitine, a compound which helps in the consumption and disposal of fat in the body and which is sometimes taken as a nutritional supplement

Acetylcholine is a natural chemical which acts as a neurotransmitter in the peripheral nervous system and also in the central nervous system.

Acetylcysteine is another term for cysteine, an amino acid that can be found in many proteins throughout the body.

Across-task schedule is another name for visual schedule, a set of pictures that communicates a series of activities or the steps of a specific activity.

Active support, is a person-centred model of support for people with learning disabilities that is grounded in applied behaviour analysis.

Activism is the doctrine or practice of vigorous action or involvement as a means of achieving political or other goals, sometimes by demonstrations, protests, and so on.

Actos is a brand name for pioglitazone, a drug which is used with a diet and exercise programme and sometimes with other drugs to treat type 2 diabetes.

Acupressure is an intervention which involves placing physical pressure on different acupuncture points on the surface of the body.

Acupuncture is a therapy which involves inserting and manipulating needles into "acupuncture points" on the body.

Adaptive behaviour is sometimes defined by the extent to which a person is capable of being self-sufficient in real-life situations, including the functional use of communication, socialisation, daily living and motor skills.

Adderall is a brand name of a stimulant composed of mixed amphetamine salts, which is used to treat inattention and hyperactivity.

The additive-free diet requires you to avoid additives, such as colourings, flavour enhancers, sweeteners and preservatives.

ADH is an acronym for antidiuretic hormone, which is another term for vasopressin.