I had a friend who used these terms frequently to diagnose herself. I used to find it so annooying but couldn't put it into words as to why i found it annoying. Thank you for putting my frustrations into words.
Great article and I think perfectly captures the current state of conversation around these terms.
My initial observation on their usage and intentions behind them are that: when it comes to incorrectly using the word OCD, it mostly comes down to ignorance, not malice, simply because people don't actually understand what OCD is.
Whereas I do think that people use the term narcissism - which has more sinister tones - maliciously, to smear others reputation (even though they may not understand what it means either but as you pointed out, is an easy catch-all word).
Same thing for when ppl casually throw it “my adhd” jokingly, or woo go “insomnia” as somme who really did go through years of insomnia where no sleeping pills no matter how strong was working.
We all arguably fall on a spectrum of various issues. Terms like OCD, PTSD, and even depressed, however, indicate disorders that require a medical professional to diagnose based on severity and time. The language we use with others and ourselves is imperative to consider as perspective will influence reality.
Plant productive and empowering seeds with intentional use of language, especially in terms of mental health.
Absolutely! I couldn't agree more. Language shapes our reality, and being intentional about the words we choose can have a profound impact on ourselves and others.
You're spot on that terms like OCD, PTSD, and depression denote specific clinical conditions that require professional evaluation. When we use these terms casually or incorrectly, we risk minimizing the experiences of those who genuinely struggle with these disorders.
By reframing our language, we can cultivate a more compassionate and understanding dialogue around mental health. It’s all about planting those empowering seeds that promote growth, healing, and awareness. Let’s continue to advocate for mindful communication—it's a powerful tool for change! Thank you for this insightful perspective!
I had a friend who used these terms frequently to diagnose herself. I used to find it so annooying but couldn't put it into words as to why i found it annoying. Thank you for putting my frustrations into words.
Great article and I think perfectly captures the current state of conversation around these terms.
My initial observation on their usage and intentions behind them are that: when it comes to incorrectly using the word OCD, it mostly comes down to ignorance, not malice, simply because people don't actually understand what OCD is.
Whereas I do think that people use the term narcissism - which has more sinister tones - maliciously, to smear others reputation (even though they may not understand what it means either but as you pointed out, is an easy catch-all word).
This is so important, thank you for sharing this!
Same thing for when ppl casually throw it “my adhd” jokingly, or woo go “insomnia” as somme who really did go through years of insomnia where no sleeping pills no matter how strong was working.
Great article. Provides clarity to something that happens way too often; the trivializing of mental health disorders.
Great article. Something we need to read during this time.
Really great article Stephanie.
I’m going to feature it in a future issue of This Week in Leadership (12k+ subs)
Love it. The power of reframing language.
We all arguably fall on a spectrum of various issues. Terms like OCD, PTSD, and even depressed, however, indicate disorders that require a medical professional to diagnose based on severity and time. The language we use with others and ourselves is imperative to consider as perspective will influence reality.
Plant productive and empowering seeds with intentional use of language, especially in terms of mental health.
Absolutely! I couldn't agree more. Language shapes our reality, and being intentional about the words we choose can have a profound impact on ourselves and others.
You're spot on that terms like OCD, PTSD, and depression denote specific clinical conditions that require professional evaluation. When we use these terms casually or incorrectly, we risk minimizing the experiences of those who genuinely struggle with these disorders.
By reframing our language, we can cultivate a more compassionate and understanding dialogue around mental health. It’s all about planting those empowering seeds that promote growth, healing, and awareness. Let’s continue to advocate for mindful communication—it's a powerful tool for change! Thank you for this insightful perspective!
This post was great for my well-managed ADHD… (just kidding… mostly). Great stuff Stephanie!