Reframing language in mental health discourses: Towards a more humane approach

Indian J Med Ethics. 2024 Jan-Mar;IX(1):73-74. doi: 10.20529/IJME.2023.070.

Abstract

This is a reflection on the nature of language used by psychologists in the contexts of referrals and assessments. Through an example of a brief referral, I attempt to unpack the "clinical" language that may dehumanise and pathologise individuals. Further, I attempt to reframe it through a language, that is not just a shift from "deficits" to "strengths", rather a discourse respecting personhood. With a brief emphasis on neurodiversity and feminism, I reflect on the importance of incorporating affirmative language whether it is neuro-affirmative, queer-affirmative, age- or caste-affirmative, within and outside mental health practice.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Language
  • Mental Health*
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*