Can we say “you’re so bipolar today”

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Can we say “you’re so bipolar today” ?

Who hasn’t said or heard phrases like “I’m OCD about housework”, “You’re so bipolar today” or “He’s a narcissistic pervert”? It’s undeniable that, as the discussion of mental health becomes more relaxed, the use of terms associated with diagnoses has become commonplace, often said in a light-hearted and banal manner. Expressions such as these are often used in informal contexts, sometimes even to describe behaviors that have nothing to do with the corresponding clinical diagnoses. Is this always a good thing? Let’s take a closer look.

The evolution of mental health: from awareness to trivialization

The development of knowledge about mental health diagnoses has played a very important role in the evolution of our everyday language. Indeed, there was a time when these terms weren’t used, simply because most people didn’t know about them. Disorders such as bipolarity, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD) were largely unknown to the general public, and consequently their use in everyday language was virtually non-existent.

However, over the past decade, discussions about mental health have gained in visibility and importance, and a better understanding of different diagnoses is developing within society. One example is the Bell cause for the cause campaign inaugurated in 2011. Awareness campaigns, personal testimonials and advances in research are helping to demystify mental health disorders and break down the taboos that surround them. This increased awareness continues to be an important step towards reducing stigma and discrimination against people living with these disorders.

The other side of the coin

However, these positive advances are leading to a certain drift towards the trivialization of certain mental health diagnoses. Expressions are now used informally to describe behaviours or personality traits with no direct link to the corresponding clinical diagnoses. For example, “having OCD” because one has certain ingrained habits, or “being bipolar” because one experiences a sudden strong emotion. This tendency to use medical terms lightly and casually can contribute to minimizing the seriousness of mental health disorders and reinforcing the stereotypes associated with them. People living with these diagnoses generally experience great suffering as a result of their symptoms. To appropriate some of them in a trivial way is to demonstrate that we don’t really understand the experiences and obstacles of these people.

The meaning of words

It’s important to recognize, however, that language is complex and evolving, and that words can have multiple meanings depending on context. For example, some people use the term “bipolar” in a non-medical sense to describe something that oscillates between two extremes is not necessarily offensive or stigmatizing in itself.

The word “bipolar” has various definitions, including a scientific meaning that has no direct connection with psychiatry. It all depends on the context of what we’re saying. For example, we can say that the Earth is bipolar, that batteries are bipolar, we can talk about stock market bipolarity, and so on.

So, how can we navigate this complex linguistic landscape while respecting the experiences of people living with mental health disorders and promoting inclusive communication in the workplace?

Mental health in the workplace

First of all, companies can organize awareness-raising and training sessions on mental health in the workplace. These sessions can include information on different mental health disorders, associated signs and symptoms, as well as advice on how to support colleagues who may be affected. Providing employees with a better understanding of the reality of mental health disorders can reduce stigma and encourage more respectful and empathetic conversations.

Policies and guidelines on the use of language in the workplace can then be put in place. This can include advice on how to communicate respectfully and inclusively with colleagues living with mental health conditions.

Companies can also provide mental health resources and support services to their employees. This includes access to employee assistance programs, counseling services or psychological wellness initiatives.

Finally, managers play an essential role in promoting a work culture that is inclusive and respectful of mental health. By leading by example and encouraging open conversations on the subject, management can help create an environment where employees feel safe to share their experiences and concerns.

And so, can we say it?

In conclusion, the question of whether mental health diagnoses can be used as adjectives and expressions in the professional setting requires a nuanced approach.

First, it must be acknowledged that while increased discussion of mental health has contributed to a greater understanding and acceptance of these disorders, it has also created an environment where clinical terms are sometimes used inappropriately or insensitively.

However, as we have seen, since language is fluid and words can have multiple meanings depending on context and definition, there are sometimes exceptions.

As a general rule, we suggest that you use other synonyms or more precise terms than those used in mental health diagnoses. The French language is rich and precise, and we can certainly find alternatives that won’t cause harm to others!

Do you enjoy inclusive language conversations? Want to create opportunities in your organization? We offer training on microaggressions, unconscious bias and inclusive writing! Contact us to arrange a session!