Do You Capitalize Mental Disorders? Here’s What You Need to Know

Mental disorders are a serious concern in today’s world, affecting millions of people globally. They can cause emotional distress, disrupt daily activities and impact one’s overall quality of life.

But when it comes to writing about mental disorders, there is often confusion regarding whether or not to capitalize their names – Bipolar disorder or bipolar disorder? Schizophrenia or schizophrenia?

This may seem like a minor detail, but it has significant implications for how we understand and talk about mental health issues. Capitalization can affect the stigma associated with these conditions, as well as our ability to communicate effectively with those who have them.

“The way we write about mental health conditions can either help reduce stigma or perpetuate it.” -Sarah Harris

In this post, we will explore the rules around capitalizing mental disorders and why they matter. We’ll also address some common misconceptions and provide resources for writers, professionals, and individuals looking to educate themselves on this topic.

If you’re interested in improving your writing and being more inclusive towards those who live with mental disorders, keep reading!

Understanding Capitalization Rules for Mental Disorders

Mental health writing requires sensitivity and attention to detail. There are rules when it comes to capitalizing mental health disorders, which should be followed in order to avoid misunderstanding and confusion. This blog post provides an overview of the types of mental disorders that need to be capitalized, general capitalization rules, common mistakes to avoid, as well as resources available for learning more about capitalization in mental health writing.

Types of Mental Disorders That Need to be Capitalized

In general, proper nouns such as names of specific illnesses or conditions are capitalized in mental health writing. Some examples of mental disorders that require capitalization include:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Schizophrenia
• Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder)
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depressive disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder)

Note that even if a word is commonly used to describe something related to mental health, it may not be capitalized. For example, “depression” on its own does not necessarily refer to a specific condition. However, “Major Depressive Disorder” is a specific diagnosis and would therefore be capitalized.

General Capitalization Rules for Mental Health Terminology

Aside from specific diagnoses, there are other terms commonly used in mental health writing that follow different capitalization rules. Here are some general guidelines:

• Certain organizations, movements, or treatments described using proper nouns are typically capitalized. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
• Non-specific terms that describe a symptom or issue are not capitalized. For example, “insomnia” is not considered a proper noun unless it is part of a specific diagnosis (like “Insomnia Disorder”).
• Some commonly used abbreviations like DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) may be capitalized as well for clarity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Capitalizing Mental Health Terms

Despite these guidelines, it is still easy to make mistakes when writing about mental health. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Confusing generic and proper nouns (e.g., capitalizing “anxiety disorder” without specifying the type)
• Capitalizing words unnecessarily (e.g., “stress” instead of “Stress Disorder”)
• Failing to capitalize acronyms properly (e.g., “dsm-5” instead of “DSM-5”)
• Mixing up different formatting styles (e.g., italicizing one name and capitalizing another)

Resources for Learning More About Capitalization in Mental Health Writing

If you would like to learn more about capitalization rules in mental health writing, there are several resources available online. Some helpful ones include:

• APA Style Guide
• National Institute of Mental Health website
• Modern Language Association style guide
• Verywell Mind article on capitalization rules in mental health writing

“Using proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation is essential when dealing with a subject as critical as mental health.” -Dr. Maureen Franklin, Clinical Psychologist

Understanding capitalization rules for mental disorders is an important aspect of effective mental health writing. It helps to communicate clearly, effectively, and accurately with readers who may be seeking guidance or help. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post and utilizing the resources available, writers can ensure that their work portrays sensitivity and professionalism.

Why Capitalization Matters in Mental Health Discourse

The way we talk about mental health can have significant impacts on how individuals perceive and cope with mental health challenges. One small but important aspect of this is the capitalization of certain terms–particularly, whether or not we capitalize mental disorders.

Capitalization has long been a contentious issue in mental health writing, with debates surrounding whether or not to treat diagnoses as proper nouns (e.g. “Autism Spectrum Disorder”) or as descriptive adjectives (e.g. “autism spectrum disorder”).

This may seem like a trivial distinction, but it holds implications for how people understand and approach mental health conditions. In this post, we’ll explore why capitalization matters in mental health discourse, its potential effects on perception and stigma, and more.

The Importance of Respectful Language in Mental Health Writing

Mental health should always be approached with sensitivity and respect. The language used to discuss mental health plays a vital role in shaping public perception and attitudes toward these conditions. Discriminatory or derogatory language can increase stigma and discourage people from seeking help.

Respectful language means using person-first terminology (e.g. “person with schizophrenia” instead of “schizophrenic”), avoiding stereotypes and slurs, and prioritizing an individual’s autonomy and agency. Additionally, consistent language use (including consistent capitalization) helps avoid confusion and miscommunication around mental health issues.

How Capitalization Can Affect Perception and Stigma

The question of whether or not to capitalize diagnoses has been debated for many years. Some argue that treating diagnoses as proper nouns –with initial caps- will lend legitimacy to the condition and remove any negative connotations associated with being diagnosed. Others argue that over-emphasizing diagnosis labels through capitalization may further stigmatize and marginalize individuals living with mental health challenges.

According to the American Psychological Association’s style guide, it is preferred to avoid capitalizing diagnoses–though there are exceptions for certain cases like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This decision was made in recognition of the potential negatives effects associated with over-emphasizing diagnosis labels through capitalization.

The Role of Language in Shaping Mental Health Narratives

Language plays a crucial role in shaping cultural attitudes towards minority groups. The way we talk about mental health can reinforce or challenge harmful stereotypes and contribute to mental health narratives that either help or harm those who live them.

Our use of language, including how we capitalize terms related to mental health, affects how people understand the conditions they’re experiencing. If we communicate in a manner that demeans mental health disorders as inherently negative, then future communication regarding the subject will be viewed negatively from the start.

Examples of Proper and Improper Capitalization in Mental Health Writing

• Proper: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Improper: Post-traumatic stress disorder

• Proper: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Improper: major depressive disorder

“In general, avoid using capitals when referring to specific forms of mental illnesses… Instead, describe the symptoms without specifically naming an illness, unless you have a very good reason not to.” – Anxiety Canada

• Proper: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Improper: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

While there are some exceptions for specific diagnoses, as mentioned above, it is generally preferred to use lower-case terms when referring to mental health disorders. This approach signals a respect and understanding of the individuals experiencing these conditions.

The Debate over Capitalization in Mental Health Writing

When it comes to writing about mental health, there is an ongoing debate regarding whether or not certain terms should be capitalized. Some argue that capitalizing specific disorders and conditions can help reduce stigma, while others believe it may do more harm than good.

Arguments for Capitalizing All Mental Health Terms

Advocates for capitalization of all mental health terms cite a number of reasons why this approach is beneficial. One of the primary arguments is that it helps communicate respect for people with mental illness.

“Capitalizing official names signals respect and normalizes what are actually common medical conditions,” says Amy Ellis Nutt, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist. “It denotes seriousness and dignity, which is especially important for those who have been historically marginalized.”

Another reason some support capitalization is to emphasize the distinct nature of mental illnesses as medical conditions. For example, schizophrenia is not just an adjective to describe behavior, but a specific diagnosis involving complex symptoms that require medical treatment.

Finally, those in support of capitalization argue that it can help reduce confusion when researching mental health topics online. When various terms related to a mental condition appear with differing capitalization online, it becomes challenging to understand their meaning without further research.

Arguments Against Capitalizing All Mental Health Terms

On the other hand, critics of capitalization argue that such an approach could have unintended consequences. For instance, they suggest it may perpetuate stereotypes by suggesting that mental illness is vastly different from physical ailments.

“The way we format words does make a very real difference on how something is perceived and creates a hierarchy around language,” points out Sarah Kapp, founder of The Healing Mind, a mental wellness platform.

Critics also contend that capitalization can create the impression of label-centric language or reductionist thinking. Psychiatric disorders vary significantly between individuals and may show a wide range of symptoms, making it difficult to simplify all cases under a single capitalized term.

Additionally, opponents argue that people who live with psychological stressors don’t always identify themselves by their clinical diagnosis. By normalizing such terms through capitalization, some believe we might accidentally make them more resonant for everyone’s way of communicating about these challenges.

While there are clearly well-intentioned reasons why advocates support capitalizing all mental health terms, critics raise valid concerns regarding potential negative outcomes. This issue remains contentious, and as such, each author should use their discretion when writing on topics related to mental health issues in order balance respect, clarity, and normalization carefully.

When to Capitalize Mental Health Terms in Academic Writing

Mental health terms are often used in academic writing, and it can be confusing to know when to capitalize them. Proper capitalization is essential for clarity and consistency in written communication. There are specific guidelines outlined by the American Psychological Association (APA) that should be followed, but there are also exceptions to these rules.

APA Guidelines for Capitalization in Mental Health Writing

The APA has established guidelines on capitalizing mental health terms in academic writing. According to their guidelines, proper nouns, such as Alzheimer’s disease or ADHD, should always be capitalized. Common nouns, such as depression or anxiety, do not need to be capitalized unless they are part of a formal diagnosis or treatment plan. For example, “The patient was diagnosed with major depressive disorder.”

In addition, acronyms for mental health conditions should be capitalized if they consist of three or more letters. Examples include PTSD for post-traumatic stress disorder and OCD for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Exceptions to APA Guidelines for Capitalization in Mental Health Writing

While the APA provides general guidelines for capitalization in mental health writing, there are some exceptions. One exception includes certain cultural or societal contexts where a common noun may be capitalized out of respect. For instance, some Indigenous cultures believe in personalizing mental illnesses as entities that possess individuals. In this context, it is appropriate to capitalize mental health common nouns.

Another exception would be if an author chooses to adhere to different style guides than the APA, such as MLA or Chicago Manual of Style. These different styles may have varying preferences about capitalization for mental health terms.

How to Determine Whether to Capitalize a Specific Mental Health Term

If uncertain about how to capitalize a particular mental health term, there are several factors that one can consider. Firstly, whether the term is a proper or common noun should be determined. If it is a proper noun such as Tourette’s syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorder, then it should always be capitalized.

Secondly, considering its universal usage will often provide clarity in using both common and proper nouns. For instance, depression when referring to a general mood disorder is a common noun but Depression with reference to Major Depressive Disorder which is addressed in DSM-5 diagnosis criteria is a formal terminology hence written in uppercase letters (Capitalization)

Examples of Proper and Improper Capitalization in Academic Writing

“The patient was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder.”

This statement follows the APA guidelines for capitalization since “Bipolar Disorder” is a proper noun and should always be capitalized.

“Her anxiety made it difficult for her to leave the house.”

The word “anxiety” here is not capitalized because it serves as a common noun referencing a normal emotional condition rather than a diagnostic entity of General Anxiety Disorder(GAD) existing in psychiatric classification manuals like DMS-V

“Patients with Schizophrenia often have trouble communicating.”

Schizophrenia is a properly named disease and must be capitalized whenever used.

Following the APA guidelines carefully will minimize errors related to capitalization in Mental Health writing while exceptions to these rules come up once in a while.

Capitalization and Stigma: Exploring the Relationship

Mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide, yet there is often confusion on how to address them. One aspect that has sparked debate among professionals is whether or not mental disorders should be capitalized in written communication.

How Capitalization Can Impact Stigma and Discrimination

Some argue that capitalizing mental disorders can increase stigma and make individuals feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition. It may also support negative stereotypes about those with mental illnesses, leading to discrimination in both social and professional settings. For example, using terms like “the schizophrenic” instead of “an individual with schizophrenia” reinforces the idea that a person’s identity is defined by their illness rather than acknowledging that they are a unique individual with many qualities beyond their diagnosis.

On the other hand, advocates for capitalization believe that it helps raise awareness and promotes recognition that mental illnesses are legitimate medical conditions. They suggest that not capitalizing these terms may downplay the severity of the disorder and contribute to the misconception that mental illness is not as significant as physical ailments.

While different styles exist amongst institutions and publications, experts recommend that when writing about a specific mental illness, use lower case except at the beginning of a sentence or in titles (APA style).

The Historical Context of Capitalization in Mental Health Discourse

The practice of capitalizing mental illnesses began during the 19th century when psychiatric diagnoses were seen as personality traits rather than medical conditions. At this time, words such as “idiot,” “lunatic,” and “imbecile” were used regularly in medical records and deemed acceptable descriptors. However, language evolves and certain phrases which once had clinical usage soon enter common vernacular discourse where connotations become more complex, blurring the line between clinical and vernacular usage. As such, as language changed in society the movement towards people-first was advanced ways to achieve a more compassionate approach.

Person-centered language emphasizes individuals first rather than their diagnosis or disorder. It is considered a simple way of humanizing those who are often seen as different from the rest. For example, by saying “an individual with bipolar disorder” instead of “a bipolar person,” it acknowledges that a mental health condition does not define an individual’s identity.

The Importance of Person-First Language in Reducing Stigma

People with mental illness face significant challenges when dealing with stigma. Accessibility, over-diagnosis and stigmatization all impact the daily lives of many individuals. Personal stories suggest the fervent desire for accurate resources allows people to have healthy conversations about what positive terms might work best for them.

“Lack of information contributes significantly to the mistreatment of people with psychosocial disabilities. As long as our societies continue to make people vulnerable through neglecting human rights and access to quality, evidence-based care, support, treatment and legal capacity services then confusion and discrimination will perpetuate.” -Ida Amalie Skau, Access and Governance Coordinator at CBM International Development Inclusive Eye Health Unit.

Hence, using phraseology which prioritizes the humanity, nuance and depth of any individual can go a long way to reducing prejudicial attitudes and actions, with studies showing that providing adequate educational material reduces stigma against mental illness diagnoses (Corrigan ET AL 2001). #SeeMeNotStigma campaign aims to invert old tropes and raise awareness on mainstream media regarding stereotypical representations and communicates promoting empathy. Various non-profit organizations focus their energies on providing information, claryfying stereotypes myths and connecting people with Psychiatric illnesses with accessible resources among other things.

While there is no clear consensus on whether or not mental disorders should be capitalized in communication, the use of person-centered language is one method that has been shown to reduce stigma and negative stereotypes associated with mental illness. Ultimately, creating a shift where people-first choices are offered highlights their identity beyond any medical condition they might have.

Best Practices for Capitalizing Mental Health Terminology

Mental health terminology is essential in identifying, diagnosing, and treating mental disorders. Yet, there has been a long-standing debate on whether to capitalize certain words when describing these conditions. While some people argue that capitalization should be consistent across the board, others believe that lowercase letters are more appropriate.

So, which one is it? Do you capitalize mental disorders or not?

The answer is simple – yes, you do. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Style Guide, all formal names of mental disorders must be capitalized. For example, Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. It is important to note that this rule applies only to formal diagnoses and not everyday language.

Consistency in Capitalization Across Documents and Disciplines

One of the most critical best practices for capitalizing mental health terminology is consistency. All documents pertaining to mental health, including medical records, reports, and research studies, must adhere to uniform capitalization rules. Consistent use of uppercase and lowercase letters ensures clear communication among healthcare professionals and patients. Additionally, standardizing capitalization improves data accuracy, making it easier to identify trends and patterns in mental health.

If inconsistencies in capitalization occur, it can lead to confusion and mistakes in diagnosis, treatment, and documentation. For instance, using a lowercase letter in bipolar disorder may result in its incorrect identification as depression. Furthermore, inconsistency among disciplines can cause uncertainty when discussing mental health issues between providers from different specialties.

To avoid such errors, mental health professionals should carefully follow APA guidelines when documenting patient care. The usage of informal abbreviations and slang terms should be avoided at all times since they can lead to ambiguity and misinterpretation.

Collaboration and Communication Among Mental Health Professionals

The second best practice for capitalizing mental health terminology is collaboration and communication. Mental disorders are complex conditions that require multiple healthcare providers to work together to provide effective treatment. Collaboration among professionals from different specialties, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and primary care physicians, can be hindered if there is a lack of standardization in language usage.

To ensure efficient teamwork, it is recommended that mental health providers establish consistent communication guidelines regarding the use of mental health terminology. This includes clarifying the appropriate ways to capitalize formal names of diagnoses, abbreviations, and acronyms. Clear alignment on capitalization also helps revision of written clinical documents collaboratively with ease or discussing patient cases verbally during multidisciplinary meetings without confusion.

“By working together effectively and using standardized terminologies, we can improve our ability to accurately diagnose, treat, evaluate and understand mental illness,” said APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, MD, MPA.

Capitalization plays an essential role in mental health terminology by maintaining consistency across various disciplines and improving clear communication between professionals and patients. Mental health professionals should recognize the importance of proper capitalization when documenting patient care and communicating with their colleagues.

Better yet, staying current with evidence-based literature enhances awareness of newer approaches and capitalized words regarding various diagnoses and other terms. With this knowledge, clinicians can promote the highest quality patient care possible while minimizing confusion due to improper capitalization practices.

Frequently Asked Questions