Neurology, Psychiatry, Geriatric Medicine, Cognitive Disorders, and Mental Health
Updated: Aug 24
| Cerebral Link | Publish by Cerebral Publication Private Limited | 2026 | Volume 2 | Page 1-300 | ISBN: 978-81-689463-2-3 | Book Title: - Textbook of Modern General Medicine | Chapter-8: Neurology, Psychiatry, Geriatric Medicine, Cognitive Disorders, and Mental Health
Author: Dr. Gaurav Uppal, MBBS, MD, MRCPsy-UK, Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist, Address: 950 G , Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar , Ludhiana, Punjab ,India 141013
Abstract
Neurological, psychiatric, cognitive, and age-related disorders represent a substantial and growing component of the global burden of disease, affecting functional independence, quality of life, and long-term health outcomes. This chapter provides an integrated overview of neurology, psychiatry, geriatric medicine, cognitive disorders, and mental health, emphasizing clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning, evidence-based management, rehabilitation, and multidisciplinary care. Major neurological conditions discussed include stroke, epilepsy, headache disorders, movement disorders, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathies, neuromuscular diseases, central nervous system infections, and common neurological emergencies. A structured neurological examination, neuroimaging, electroencephalography, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and other relevant investigations are incorporated into the diagnostic approach.
The psychiatric section addresses common mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders, substance-use disorders, sleep disturbances, and selected behavioral conditions. Emphasis is placed on systematic mental status examination, risk assessment, appropriate pharmacological and psychological interventions, and recognition of psychiatric emergencies.
Geriatric medicine is considered through the principles of comprehensive geriatric assessment, multimorbidity, frailty, falls, polypharmacy, sensory impairment, functional decline, nutrition, and preservation of independence. Cognitive disorders, particularly delirium, mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer disease, vascular cognitive impairment, and other major neurocognitive disorders, are reviewed with attention to early recognition, differential diagnosis, cognitive assessment, investigation, and supportive management. The chapter also highlights the complex interactions between neurological disease, physical health, cognition, aging, and psychological well-being. Preventive strategies, rehabilitation, caregiver support, medication safety, and social determinants of health are integrated throughout. A patient-centered and multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimizing neurological and mental health, maintaining functional capacity, and improving quality of life across the lifespan.
Keywords: Neurology; Psychiatry; Geriatric Medicine; Cognitive Disorders; Mental Health; Stroke; Dementia; Depression; Neurocognitive Disorders; Healthy Aging
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