Mental Health Terms People Commonly Misuse And What to Say Instead

Mental health language has quietly slipped into our everyday conversations, and honestly, no judgment if you’ve casually said things like “I’m so OCD” or “That’s triggering.” Who hasn’t? These terms are everywhere, from group chats to memes.

But here’s the thing: when we use clinical mental health terms loosely, we can unintentionally minimize what others are truly going through and even make it harder to understand our own emotions.

Let’s take a moment to check in on a few commonly misused phrases, and explore more accurate and respectful ways to express ourselves. You don’t need to be perfect—just more intentional. It’s a small shift that can go a long way in reducing stigma and increasing clarity.

1. “I’m so OCD”

What people often mean: “I like things tidy” or “I’m very particular.”

Why it’s problematic: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a serious, often debilitating condition involving intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours that can interfere significantly with daily life. It’s not just about neatness or liking symmetry.

Try instead:

• “I like it when things are organized in a certain way.”

• “I’m pretty particular about order.”

2. “I’m so depressed”

What people often mean: “I’m feeling down,” “disappointed,” or “having a hard day.”

Why it’s problematic: Depression is a diagnosable mental health condition involving persistent low mood, lack of energy, sleep/appetite changes, and feelings of hopelessness. Throwing the term around casually can make it harder for those struggling with depression to feel understood or safe enough to talk about it.

Try instead:

• “That’s really upsetting.”

• “I’m feeling sad about this.”

• “I’ve been feeling off lately.”

3. “That’s triggering”

What people often mean: “That annoyed me” or “I didn’t like that.”

Why it’s problematic: In mental health, being triggered refers to a trauma-related emotional response: often intense, overwhelming, and tied to past traumatic experiences. Using it to describe minor discomfort dilutes its meaning.

Try instead:

• “That made me uncomfortable.”

• “That bothered me.”

• “I didn’t like that.”

  
  

4. “I have anxiety”

What people often mean: “I’m nervous,” “I’m stressed,” or “I’m overwhelmed.”

Why it’s problematic: Anxiety disorders such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, or Panic Disorder, to name a few, involve chronic, excessive worry that can affect sleep, work, relationships, and functioning. While many of us feel anxious at times, casually saying “I have anxiety” when it’s really short-term nervousness can blur the distinction.

Try instead:

• “I’m feeling anxious about this.”

• “This situation is stressing me out.”

• “I’m feeling overwhelmed right now.”

Why This Matters

Being mindful of the words we choose doesn’t mean walking on eggshells; it’s about being respectful, clear, and compassionate. When we speak more intentionally, we also give ourselves better language for understanding our own emotional experiences. This often also decreases the intensity of whatever negative emotion we are feeling, so it's a win-win.

You might be surprised how much more connected and understood you feel - both to others and to yourself.

Final Thoughts

If you're struggling with any of the above emotions, you are absolutely worthy of therapy; things don't have to be really bad in order to deserve a space to talk things out.

If you’re thinking of reaching out, we’re here to help. If you have any questions or are interested in our services, please feel free to reach out to us info@onepsychology.ca or complete the New Client Form.