116 — Stop Misusing These 7 Mental Health Terms
Therapy “speak terms” are often misused in everyday conversations leading to misunderstandings and stigma. Today I’m shedding light on the seven most commonly misused mental health terms — including “narcissist,” “gaslighting,” and “high-functioning anxiety.”
Learn the impact of social media misinformation and why accurate mental health vocabulary matters. Empower yourself with factual information, and discover how proper usage can promote better understanding to reduce stigma. Here’s how to spread mental health awareness, improve your communication skills, and get answers to your questions about mental health.
Key Takeaways:
- Misuse of Mental Health Terms: Misapplying mental health terminology can diminish the experiences of those with genuine conditions and lead to misunderstandings and stigma.
- Social Media Misinformation: A vast amount of incorrect and potentially harmful mental health content is circulated on social platforms like TikTok.
- Correct Vocabulary: Understanding and using proper mental health vocabulary can empower individuals and reduce stigma.
- Accurate Diagnosis: It is essential to rely on professional evaluations for mental health diagnoses rather than self-diagnosing based on vague online lists.
- Self Care Misconceptions: True self-care goes beyond superficial activities like manicures and focuses on long-term well-being and stress management.
Notable Quotes:
- “When people use mental health terms incorrectly, it actually diminishes the struggle people with certain conditions experience.”
- “Gaslighting happens. People do things to make their partners question their sanity so they can get something out of it, usually some kind of control over them. But just because someone disagrees with you or has a different opinion doesn’t mean they’re gaslighting you.”
- “Healthy self care should help you manage your stress, it should reduce your risk of mental health issues, and it should help you function at your best in the long term.”
Timestamp | Summary |
0:00 | Misuse of Mental Health Terms and Its Consequences |
3:56 | Misuse of Psychological Terms in Everyday Conversations |
7:00 | Misuse of Mental Health Terms and Their Real Meanings |
11:53 | Misconceptions About Self Care and Addiction |
15:41 | The Importance of Accurate Mental Health Terminology |
Links & Resources
Mental Health America screening tools
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