Misused, Overused, and Misunderstood Mental Health Diagnoses: The Harm of Buzzwords


Introduction

In recent years, mental health terminology has increasingly permeated everyday language. Terms like "narcissist," "triggered," and "OCD" are commonly used in casual conversation and social media. However, their frequent misuse, overuse, and misunderstanding can lead to significant consequences. This blog explores the most commonly misused mental health diagnoses, the implications of these inaccuracies, and the importance of using these terms correctly.

Misused Terms

Narcissist

The term "narcissist" is often thrown around to describe anyone who displays self-centered or egotistical behavior. However, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a serious mental health condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Incorrectly labeling someone as a narcissist can lead to stigma, miscommunication, and unnecessary conflict.

Triggered

"Triggered" is used to describe any negative emotional response, but its origins lie in trauma and PTSD. A trigger is a stimulus that elicits a severe emotional reaction due to past trauma. Misusing this term trivializes the experiences of trauma survivors and can invalidate their struggles (Bonanno, 2021).

OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misrepresented as a quirky tendency to be neat or organized. In reality, OCD involves intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that significantly impair daily functioning (Abramowitz & Jacoby, 2015). This misunderstanding can minimize the challenges faced by those with OCD and discourage them from seeking appropriate help.

Overused Terms

Depression

While feeling sad or down is a normal part of life, depression is a severe and persistent mood disorder that affects one's ability to function. The overuse of the term "depressed" to describe temporary sadness can diminish the severity of clinical depression and contribute to a lack of empathy for those suffering from the condition (Hammen, 2018).

Bipolar

"Bipolar" is frequently used to describe someone who is moody or unpredictable. However, Bipolar Disorder involves extreme mood swings, including manic and depressive episodes, and requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Misusing this term can perpetuate misconceptions and reduce the seriousness of the disorder (Geddes & Miklowitz, 2013).

Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal response to stress, but Anxiety Disorders involve excessive and persistent worry that interferes with daily life. Describing normal stress or nervousness as "anxiety" can lead to confusion about what constitutes an anxiety disorder and may result in underestimating the condition's impact (Craske & Stein, 2016).

Misunderstood Terms

PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often misunderstood as a condition only affecting combat veterans. In reality, PTSD can result from any traumatic event, such as accidents, natural disasters, or abuse. This misconception can prevent individuals from recognizing their symptoms and seeking help (Yehuda, 2016).

Borderline

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by intense emotional instability, impulsivity, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. It's often misunderstood as being "difficult" or "manipulative," leading to stigma and isolation for those affected (Zanarini, 2015).

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is commonly misrepresented as a condition involving multiple personalities. In fact, it involves symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. This misunderstanding can lead to fear and discrimination against those with the disorder (van Os & Kapur, 2009).

The Negative Impact

Using these terms incorrectly can have several negative effects:

  1. Stigma and Stereotypes: Misuse perpetuates stereotypes and stigma, making it harder for individuals with genuine conditions to seek help and feel understood (Corrigan & Watson, 2002).
  2. Minimization of Experiences: Casual use of serious diagnoses can minimize the experiences of those with mental health conditions, reducing empathy and support (Link et al., 2004).
  3. Self-Diagnosis and Misinformation: Overuse and misuse can lead to self-diagnosis based on incomplete or incorrect information, potentially delaying professional treatment (Rosenfield, 1997).

Conclusion

It's crucial to use mental health terminology accurately and respectfully. Understanding and correctly applying these terms can foster empathy, reduce stigma, and encourage those struggling with mental health issues to seek the help they need.

References

  • Abramowitz, J. S., & Jacoby, R. J. (2015). The paradox of intrusive thoughts in obsessive-compulsive disorder: "out of my head, but in my mind". Clinical Psychology Review, 37, 102-113.
  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
  • Bonanno, G. A. (2021). The end of trauma: How the new science of resilience is changing how we think about PTSD.
  • Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16-20.
  • Craske, M. G., & Stein, M. B. (2016). Anxiety. The Lancet, 388(10063), 3048-3059.
  • Geddes, J. R., & Miklowitz, D. J. (2013). Treatment of bipolar disorder. The Lancet, 381(9878), 1672-1682.
  • Hammen, C. (2018). Risk factors for depression: An autobiographical review. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 14, 1-28.
  • Link, B. G., Phelan, J. C., Bresnahan, M., Stueve, A., & Pescosolido, B. A. (2004). Public conceptions of mental illness: Labels, causes, dangerousness, and social distance. American Journal of Public Health, 89(9), 1328-1333.
  • Rosenfield, S. (1997). Labeling mental illness: The effects of received services and perceived stigma on life satisfaction. American Sociological Review, 62(4), 660-672.
  • van Os, J., & Kapur, S. (2009). Schizophrenia. The Lancet, 374(9690), 635-645.
  • Yehuda, R. (2016). Post-traumatic stress disorder. New England Journal of Medicine, 346(2), 108-114.
  • Zanarini, M. C. (2015). Role of childhood experiences in the development of borderline personality disorder. Personality Disorders: Theory, Research, and Treatment, 6(2), 195-202.

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