Language (inclusive language) is a powerful tool that shapes our understanding of the world and each other. It can build bridges of empathy or, conversely, create barriers of misunderstanding. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of how our language choices impact individuals with neurodivergent traits. Neurodivergence encompasses a variety of conditions, including but not limited to ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Each of these conditions has its own unique set of experiences and challenges.
However, in everyday conversations, terms related to neurodivergence are often used casually or metaphorically, detached from their true meanings. Phrases like “I’m so OCD about organizing my books” or “The weather is so bipolar today” dilute the reality of these conditions. Such misuse not only minimizes the experiences of individuals who live with these conditions but also inadvertently perpetuates stereotypes and misinformation.
Furthermore, this casual usage can alienate those it describes, taking language away from neurodivergent individuals and communities. It can also contribute to a sense of shame or misunderstanding about these conditions, both for those who live with them and for the broader public.
By being more mindful of the words we use, we can create a more understanding and empathetic society. This guide aims to provide clear examples of common misuses of neurodivergent terms and offer alternative expressions that are both accurate and respectful. Together, we can contribute to a more inclusive world where language uplifts rather than undermines, educates rather than misinforms, and respects the unique experiences of every individual.
- ‘Depressed’ for ‘Sad’
- Misuse: “I’m so depressed, my favorite show was canceled.”
- Alternative: “I’m really sad that my favorite show was canceled.”
- ‘OCD’ for Eye for Detail/Precision
- Misuse: “I’m so OCD about how my books are arranged.”
- Alternative: “I’m very particular about how my books are arranged.”
- ‘ADHD’ for ‘Distracted’
- Misuse: “My ADHD is so strong today, I can’t focus on this project for more than a few minutes.”
- Alternative: “I’m having a hard time focusing on this project today.”
- ‘Autistic’ to Describe Someone Not Very Interactive or Talkative
- Misuse: “He’s a bit autistic, doesn’t talk much at parties.”
- Alternative: “He tends to be quiet and reserved at parties.”
- ‘Bipolar’ to Describe Changes in Opinions or Mood Swings
- Misuse: “She’s so bipolar, happy one minute and angry the next.”
- Alternative: “She seems to have frequent mood changes.”
- ‘Schizophrenic’ for Having Conflicting Viewpoints
- Misuse: “His views on this topic are schizophrenic.”
- Alternative: “His views on this topic are quite contradictory.”
- ‘Borderline’ for Being Emotionally Unstable or Unpredictable
- Misuse: “She’s acting so borderline, changing her mind every five minutes.”
- Alternative: “She’s being quite unpredictable, changing her mind frequently.”
- ‘Anorexic’ for ‘Very Thin’
- Misuse: “She’s so skinny, almost anorexic.”
- Alternative: “She’s very thin.”
- ‘Burnt Out’ for ‘Stressed’
- Misuse: “I’m totally burnt out after that meeting.”
- Alternative: “I’m really stressed after that meeting.”
By choosing our words carefully, we can avoid trivializing or misrepresenting serious mental health conditions. This approach fosters a more respectful and understanding environment for everyone, particularly for those directly affected by these conditions.
Simone Pengue & Ines Böhm
Leave a Reply