We’ve seen & even sometimes used (intentionally or unintentionally) clinical terms that are used to diagnose an individual with mental illness. I’ve been told several times myself that ‘you have OCD because you check locks so much’ but it really is a security concern for me & yet so many of us throw these words casually at each other.
The issue with using these terms is that we’re placing clinical definitions on people —including ourselves— who may not have clinical issues but maybe sometimes made to believe so. Some of these terms are:
1. Anti-social
People refer to introverts or people who like to mind their own space as anti-social individuals. Anti-social behaviours are actions that harm or lack consideration for the well-being of others.
2. Narcissistic
Narcissistic is not being a mean or a selfish person. Narcissism is referred to as a a set of behaviours where a person has disregard for people. They lack emotion in multiple situations, and they are concerned solely with themselves.
3. OCD
OCD does not refer to someone who’s organised or like to keep or see things as they are. Rather, people who suffer from OCD compulsive thoughts or behaviours that are seen as unreasonable.
4. Bipolar
Bipolar is not changing your mood. We all have mood changes throughout the day. Bipolar is clinically defined as having an issue with going from a manic to a depressive state. It has nothing to do with the gamut of emotions you might experience throughout the day.
5. Anxiety
Anxious is not being excited or nervous. Anxiety is being worried about something in the past, present, or future in a way that is disruptive to your ability to function.
6. Depressed
Depressed is not feeling sad because something happened to you on any given day. Depression is a set of behaviours. When it is complemented with issues like trouble sleeping, eating, or concentrating then that may indicate depression.
I hope that now we can have a better understanding of these medical terms & be mindful of using them and ensure that we don’t place inappropriate labels on one another.
*These terms are being used solely for educational purposes. Please do not diagnose yourself or somebody around you based on these definitions. Consult a psychologist if you feel like seeking help.