Does anyone else find the word "psychotic" offensive when being used to describe you? I certainly do.

My therapist keeps using the word "psychotic" in front of me. Saying "you're psychotic" is sort of... insulting? I mean, first of all... I am sane. Second of all, even if it WERE true, why would you say, "you're psychotic"? I think that's on the same level as saying "you're legally insane," or "you're suicidally depressed."

Am I being too sensitive? I find such blunt phrases to be rather harsh. Why not just say, "I understand. You seem to be experiencing [insert symptoms here]." My pdoc never says the word "psychotic," and instead talks about my symptoms in the way I described in my previous sentence. He never accuses me of being psychotic.

[HALLIEBETH87]

I wouldn’t like
That either. My tx team just says “you’re experiencing psychosis

Hi bluebicyle. I don't personally find the word psychotic or psychosis offensive, as long as a person is legitimately experiencing it. However, if you do and prefer that your therapist refer to your symptoms instead (i.e. hallucinations, paranoid thoughts, or delusions), do let him/her know. I don't see why they shouldn't do you the favor of using terms you prefer, as long as they are accurate. If you're not well, you can't expect to be called well.

[fern46]

I can see both sides. When I was psychotic I was delusional and insane. Prior to that I was experiencing symptoms of psychosis on and off although overall, I was fairly 'sane'. Hearing that my symptoms were psychotic even when I was fairly well was the slap in the face I needed at the time. I needed to realize how the little things I was doing were harming me.

I think perhaps terms like psychotic are used to help one understand the nature and severity of the symptoms. You are a well educated patient, so that's not really necessary in your case. However, some patients may benefit from the designation.

I feel like therapy should be customized to the individual. I see nothing wrong with informing your therapist how it makes you feel when that language is used. You can discern from the symptoms what is going on and it is fair for them to know it isn't adding value in your case. It also may help them to reframe how they speak to other patients in the future.

[Wild Coyote]

Great point, Blue!
I have also noticed many people working in mental health often tell people they are psychotic, when the y could be more thoughtful in their wording. is it possible to tell your therapist how you feel?

I feel similar when people living with Bipolar illness are called "Bipolar(s)."

I hope you can educate your therapist.

[Victoria'smom]

My therapists have never used "psychosis". They've said I had bazaar thinking, paranoia "does that sound healthy?" but never actually said that. Even intake just repeated what I said and didn't judge it like that. I know when my thinking is off I don't need anyone to judge it because that's a quick way to get me to shut down.

[MickeyCheeky]

Well, that's certainly not the nicest way to put it, bluebicycle, at least in my opinion, and you seem to think the same. I think you have EVERY RIGHT not to be called in a certain way if you don't want to. I'd suggest to talk it out with your Pdoc and gently ask him if he'd rather avoid using those terms and using kinder ones instead. Certainly that shouldn't be a big problem for him. Definitely tell him this next time you see him! Sending many safe, warm hugs to you, bluebicycle, your Family, your Friends and ALL of your Loved Ones! KEEP FIGHTING AND KEEP ROCKING!

[Jedi67]

I would bring it up for sure if it does make you feel uncomfortable. Definitely communicate your concern about how the term makes you feel.

[SorryShaped]

I don't care what you call me, doc, just get in there and fix it
Though, I am sorry it makes others uncomfortable