Emotionally Disturbed: Politically Correct Or Not?

The term emotionally disturbed is used to describe a person with emotional, mental, or erratic behavior that affects their decision-making and may lead to self-harm or harm to others. It is a politically correct term used by law enforcement to describe a person with a mental illness. The term emotionally disturbed person (EDP) is preferred over offensive and stigmatizing labels such as crazy, psycho, or mental. While the use of emotionally disturbed is an improvement, it is still important to recognize that mental illnesses are highly varied, and using broad terms can fail to capture the nuances of an individual's experience.

Is 'emotionally disturbed' an appropriate term?

The term "emotionally disturbed" is used in the US's Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to refer to a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period that adversely affects a child's educational performance:

• An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors.
• An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers.
• Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.
• A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.
• A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.

The term "emotionally disturbed" is also used by law enforcement to describe a person with emotional, mental, or erratic behavior that affects their decision-making and may include hurting themselves or others.

While the term "emotionally disturbed" is used in official contexts, some may argue that it is not appropriate as it carries a negative connotation and contributes to the stigma surrounding mental health. Instead, using more specific language that acknowledges the diversity of mental illnesses can be more respectful and help to reduce stigma. For example, instead of saying "a mentally ill person", it is more respectful to say "a person with a mental illness". This is called using "person-first" language, which emphasizes the person rather than their illness.

In conclusion, while the term "emotionally disturbed" is used in certain contexts, such as legal and educational settings, some may argue that it is not appropriate due to its potential to stigmatize and disrespect individuals with mental health issues. Using more specific and person-first language can be a more respectful and inclusive alternative.

What are some alternatives to 'emotionally disturbed'?

The term "emotionally disturbed" is often used to describe a person with emotional, mental, or erratic behaviour that affects their decision-making process and may include hurting themselves or others. This term is considered politically correct by some, especially in the context of law enforcement, where officers deal with people in mental health crises. However, there are more sensitive alternatives that can be used to describe someone experiencing emotional or mental health issues. Here are some alternatives to the phrase "emotionally disturbed":

• Emotionally unbalanced
• Emotionally unstable
• Emotionally confused
• Emotionally draining
• Emotionally exhausted
• Emotionally immature
• Emotionally detached
• Emotionally depleted
• Emotionally defeated
• Mentally unstable
• Psychologically unstable
• Mentally disturbed

These terms can be used to describe someone experiencing emotional challenges without the potentially stigmatising or insensitive connotations of "emotionally disturbed". It is important to choose language that is respectful and non-judgmental when discussing mental health issues.

Why is ''mentally ill person' not a good term?

The term "mentally ill person" is not considered good because it fails to acknowledge that mental illnesses are not all the same and that people with mental health issues have far more sides to them than their diagnosis. Instead, it is more respectful to use “person-first” language, such as “person with a mental illness” or "person living with a mental health issue". This approach emphasizes the individual before their condition, recognizing that they are not defined solely by their mental health struggles and honoring their other qualities and characteristics.

Using "person-first" language is also important because it helps to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Mental illnesses are often surrounded by stigma, fear, and discrimination, and the use of disrespectful or insensitive language can contribute to this. By being thoughtful and respectful in our language choices, we can play a part in ending these damaging stigmas.

Additionally, the phrase "mentally ill person" can be seen as negative because it implies that having a mental illness is inherently negative or undesirable. While it may present challenges, it can also lead to positive outcomes, such as increased empathy, artistic inclination, or a greater ability to help others.

Furthermore, the term "mentally ill person" can be problematic because it fails to acknowledge the diversity of mental health issues. Mental illness is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of specific conditions, such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and psychotic disorders. By using the phrase "mentally ill person," we lose sight of the unique experiences and symptoms associated with different mental health issues.

Finally, the phrase "mentally ill person" can be seen as offensive because it reduces an individual to their medical condition. People are multifaceted and cannot be defined solely by their health status. Using terms like "cancer-ic" or "heart diseased" to describe individuals with physical health issues would be unacceptable, and the same principle applies to mental health.

What are some other terms to avoid?

When discussing mental health, it is important to be mindful of the language we use to avoid perpetuating damaging stigmas and causing harm or offence. Here are some terms to avoid:

• "Mental illness" as a collective term: Mental illness is a broad term that does not reflect the individual's specific experience. Instead, use "mental illnesses" or "a mental illness".
• "Afflicted by/suffers from/is a victim of mental illness": This implies that the person is unwell and unhappy, and perpetuates the stigma of mental illness as a weakness. Instead, use "living with a mental illness".
• "Mentally ill person": This labels the person by their medical condition and fails to acknowledge their other qualities. Instead, use "person with a mental illness" or "person living with a mental health issue".
• "Schizophrenic, psychotic, disturbed, crazy, or insane": Labelling people with these terms is inappropriate and offensive. Instead, use phrases such as "person living with schizophrenia" or "person experiencing psychosis, disorientation, or hallucination".
• "Normal behaviour": There is no clear definition of "normal", and it can cause those with mental health issues to feel hurt or defensive. Instead, use "usual behaviour" or "typical behaviour".
• "Substance abuse, addict, or user": These terms place blame and do not acknowledge the complex factors that contribute to substance misuse. Instead, use "substance use disorder".
• "Committed suicide": This phrase suggests blame and shame. Instead, use "died by suicide" or "lost to suicide".

By using respectful and considerate language, we can play a part in ending the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and create a more supportive environment for those affected.

What are some appropriate terms to use?

The term "emotionally disturbed" is often used to describe people with mental health issues, but it is important to recognize that this phrase can be considered offensive and stigmatizing. Here are some more appropriate terms and phrases to use when discussing mental health:

• Use "a person with a mental illness" or "a person living with a mental health issue": This is called "person-first" language and emphasizes that the individual is not defined solely by their mental health condition. It acknowledges that they have other qualities and strengths outside of their diagnosis.
• Avoid collective terms like "the mentally ill": Instead, opt for phrases like "people with mental illnesses" or "individuals living with mental health issues."
• Be specific: There are many different types of mental illnesses, and each person's experience is unique. Avoid generalizing and try to use more precise language. For example, instead of saying "she is schizophrenic," say "she is living with schizophrenia."
• Avoid negative and stigmatizing language: Phrases like "afflicted by," "suffering from," or "victim of" imply that the person is inherently unwell or unhappy. Instead, use phrases like "living with" or "experiencing."
• Avoid using "normal": There is no clear definition of what "normal" means, and it can make people with mental health issues feel like they don't fit in or are not typical. Opt for words like "usual" or "typical" instead.
• Use "substance use disorder" instead of "substance abuse": This acknowledges that there are often complex factors, such as neurobiological and emotional health issues, contributing to substance misuse.
• Say "died by suicide" or "lost to suicide": Using the phrase "committed suicide" implies blame and shame, which can be harmful and stigmatizing.
• Avoid derogatory terms: Words like "crazy," "unhinged," "psycho," or "mental" are insulting and disrespectful. They contribute to the stigma surrounding mental health.
• Use "emotional or behavioral disturbance" in educational contexts: This term is used in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is appropriate when discussing children's mental health in an educational setting.

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