I'm not a psychologist, but that is essentially what I did here. I listened to all of the stories, tried my best to translate the language used for a match in the psychological field of study and then observed patterns over time. My goal wasn't to redefine psychology terms. I was just trying to gain insight so I could see myself getting sick and hopefully stop it before harming anyone. Once I saw it, I knew exactly what to do and how quickly to move because I knew what would happen if I didn't. I used the expertise of veterans to supplement my newbie level of experience.


I could not agree with you more though. I've told my pdoc and my therapist that if they truly want to understand they should get an account here and learn from the ground up.


Stigmas do not really bother me. I am more interested in choosing words that properly convey the physical and emotional dynamics involved. I know we are often demonized, but using accessible terms that every patient can understand, feel and know would go a long way in improving care. If they sound bad, so be it.