Mental Health Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on mental health, wellbeing, emotions and psychology vocabulary. B1 level. Ideal for general English learners, healthcare students and anyone looking to discuss mental health topics in English.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Mental Health Vocabulary Quiz is actually used in context at B1 level, rather than testing bare definitions, with each question embedding a target word in a full example sentence.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Keep building your mental health vocabulary.
Mental Health Vocabulary — FAQ
What is the difference between 'stress' and 'anxiety' in English?
Stress is a response to an external cause, such as a work deadline or an argument. It typically goes away when the situation is resolved. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness or unease that can persist even when there is no clear external trigger. In everyday English, people sometimes use these words interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in psychology.
What does 'wellbeing' mean in English?
Wellbeing refers to the state of being comfortable, healthy and happy. It includes physical wellbeing (how healthy your body is), mental wellbeing (how healthy your mind is), and social wellbeing (the quality of your relationships). The phrase 'mental wellbeing' is often used as a more positive and broader alternative to 'mental health', focusing on flourishing rather than illness.
What is the difference between a 'psychiatrist' and a 'psychologist'?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in mental health. Because they are doctors, they can prescribe medication. A psychologist is trained in the science of the mind and behaviour but is typically not a medical doctor and cannot prescribe medication (in most countries). Both can provide therapy, but their training and approach differ significantly.
What does 'therapy' mean, and what are common types?
Therapy (or psychotherapy) is a treatment for mental health problems that involves talking to a trained professional. Common types include: CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), which helps change negative thought patterns; counselling, which provides emotional support and guidance; and group therapy, where people share experiences in a group setting. 'Talking therapy' is a general term used in British English for all types of psychotherapy.
What mental health vocabulary is important at B1 English level?
Key B1 mental health vocabulary includes: anxiety (persistent worry), depression (persistent low mood), stress (pressure from external demands), burnout (exhaustion from overwork), phobia (extreme irrational fear), trauma (emotional damage from a distressing event), resilience (ability to recover from difficulties), self-esteem (confidence in one's own worth), coping strategy (a method used to manage stress), and therapy (professional psychological treatment).
What is 'burnout' in English?
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress, usually related to work. Signs of burnout include feeling drained, losing motivation, becoming cynical about work, and reduced productivity. It is increasingly recognised as a serious health condition. In 2019 the World Health Organisation classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon.
What is the meaning of 'resilience' in mental health contexts?
Resilience is the ability to recover quickly from difficulties, setbacks or traumatic events. In mental health contexts, a resilient person can adapt positively to adversity, trauma, tragedy or significant stress. Resilience does not mean avoiding difficult emotions — it means working through them and bouncing back. It is considered a key protective factor for mental health.
What does 'self-esteem' mean in English?
Self-esteem is the degree to which a person values, respects and has confidence in themselves. High self-esteem means you feel good about yourself and your abilities. Low self-esteem means you have a negative view of yourself, often feeling unworthy or incapable. Self-esteem is closely linked to mental health — chronic low self-esteem is associated with depression and anxiety.
What is a 'phobia' in English?
A phobia is an extreme or irrational fear of a specific thing, situation or activity. Unlike ordinary fear, a phobia causes significant distress and can interfere with daily life. Common phobias include arachnophobia (fear of spiders), claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) and agoraphobia (fear of open or crowded spaces). Phobias are among the most common mental health conditions and are usually treated with CBT or exposure therapy.
What are common English phrases used when talking about mental health?
Useful phrases: 'I'm feeling overwhelmed' (too much to cope with), 'I'm burnt out' (exhausted from overwork), 'I need some headspace' (time to think and relax), 'I'm struggling with my mental health' (having difficulties), 'I'm seeing a therapist' (attending therapy), 'I'm on medication' (taking prescribed drugs), 'I need to decompress' (relax and reduce stress), and 'I'm taking care of my wellbeing' (looking after your mental and physical health).