Is the stigma surrounding mental health improving?
A recent study published in PLOS Mental Health revealed significant shifts in how we talk about mental health over the past 80 years. Researchers analyzed a vast collection of texts, including books, magazines, and newspapers, to track the usage of 24 different terms related to mental ill health. Patricia Wu and Jessica Reyes discuss the story with psychologist, Dr. Catherine Bailey.
Adopting more respectful language
The findings showed a clear move away from older terms like “mental disease” and “mental disturbance” towards “mental health,” “psychiatric,” and “mental illness.” Notably, “mental illness” emerged as the most frequently used term, particularly since the mid-20th century.
The cultural shift in how we view mental health
This shift in language reflects the growing prominence of mental health in public discourse and the expansion of mental health professions. While the study focused on word frequency rather than individual preferences, it highlights the importance of understanding how language shapes our perception of mental health.
Future research could explore how different groups, such as scientists and the general public, use mental health language and how it impacts those experiencing mental ill health.
