What is a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)?

A subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is specifically identified as a stroke resulting from bleeding between the brain and the tissues covering it, known as the subarachnoid space. This bleeding can be caused by various factors, including the rupture of an aneurysm, trauma, or other vascular malformations. The presence of blood in the subarachnoid space can lead to increased intracranial pressure, irritation of the brain, and various neurological deficits.

The other options focus on different health issues. Mental health disorders refer to psychological conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior, which is unrelated to bleeding in the brain. Conditions affecting the spinal cord are distinct from SAH since they pertain more to issues involving the central nervous system's lower regions. Lastly, psychological trauma is related to emotional responses to distressing events rather than physical bleeding within the cranial cavity. Understanding these distinctions is key to grasping the definitions and implications of different medical conditions.