Well, I think it's better to explain for those who care what is actually going on. I demonstrated racing thoughts to few people... and it got the point across.

I do get the "feeling stupid" at times too, so I can sympathize. As for inability to cry, it's actually common effect of ADs and other drugs... or it can occur naturally too. Mind is a funny thing.

But I really think that explaining the basis symptoms of what is going on is better than comparing it to something else. I really feel the medical model to most people is "if they take their pills, things are swell". I encountered that attitude personally. Most people are willing to listen if you tell them what is going on. May try to have unhelpful suggestions... but often they think they are being helpful, eh.