Bridging the Gap Between Psychiatric and Local Terms

Dementia - मनोभ्रंश

Medical Term:
Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, language, and the ability to perform daily activities. Common causes include Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, dementia is often described as "भूलने की बीमारी" (Bhoolne Ki Bimari) or "बुढ़ापे का असर" (Budhape Ka Asar), oversimplifying it as forgetfulness or an inevitable part of aging.

Key Message:
Dementia is not a normal part of aging. While aging increases risk, dementia is a medical condition requiring early intervention, proper care, and, in some cases, medication to manage symptoms.

Substance Use Disorder - मादक द्रव्य उपयोग विकार

Medical Term:
Substance use disorder refers to the problematic use of substances like alcohol, tobacco, or drugs that leads to dependency, physical harm, and social impairment.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, substance use is often stigmatized as "नशेकरने की आदत" (Nashe Ki Aadat) or "चरसी/नशेड़ी" (Charsi/Nashedi), terms that are derogatory and dismissive of the underlying psychological condition.

Key Message:
Substance use disorder is a treatable medical condition, not just a "bad habit." Supportive treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation can help individuals recover and lead productive lives.

Anxiety - चिंता

Medical Term:
Anxiety is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness, often accompanied by physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and restlessness.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, anxiety is often called "चिंता" (Chinta) or "डरने की आदत" (Darne Ki Aadat), trivializing it as everyday stress or shyness rather than acknowledging it as a clinical disorder.

Key Message:
Anxiety is more than just "being worried." It’s a mental health condition that can significantly affect daily life but is highly treatable with therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques.

Depression - अवसाद

Medical Term:
Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. It is not just "feeling sad" but a clinical condition requiring attention.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, depression is often referred to as "उदासी" (Udasi) or "मनोमालिन्य" (Manomalinya). However, these terms often trivialize the depth of clinical depression, equating it with temporary sadness.

Key Message:
Depression is not a sign of weakness or something that can be easily "snapped out of." Seeking help is crucial, as treatments such as therapy and medication are effective.

Mania - उन्माद

Medical Term:
Mania is part of bipolar disorder and involves periods of abnormally elevated mood, increased energy, inflated self-esteem, reduced need for sleep, and impulsive behaviour.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, "उन्माद" (Unmad) or "पागलपन" (Pagalpan) are used to describe manic symptoms, often derogatorily. This misrepresents mania as madness or uncontrollable behaviour rather than a medical condition.

Key Message:
Mania is not "madness"; it is a part of bipolar disorder that can be stabilized with mood-stabilizing medications and psychotherapy. Understanding the condition helps combat stigma.

Schizophrenia - मनोरोग

Medical Term:
Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning. It is not a "split personality," as often misunderstood.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, "पागलपन" (Pagalpan) or "मनोविक्षिप्तता" (Manovikshiptata) are frequently used. These terms are overly simplistic and stigmatizing, reducing schizophrenia to mere "madness."

Key Message:
Schizophrenia is a manageable mental health condition with proper treatment. Early intervention, medications, and supportive therapies can significantly improve outcomes.

Personality Disorder - व्यक्तित्व विकार

Medical Term:
Personality disorders are enduring patterns of behaviour, cognition, and inner experience that deviate from cultural norms. These patterns are pervasive, inflexible, and often lead to distress or functional impairment. Common subtypes include Borderline Personality Disorder and Antisocial Personality Disorder.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, terms like "स्वभाव का दोष" (Swabhav ka Dosh) or "चरित्र की कमजोरी" (Charitra ki Kamzori) are often used, reflecting moral judgments rather than medical understanding. Such language can lead to stigma, seeing the condition as a character flaw rather than a mental health issue.

Key Message:
Personality disorders are not flaws or faults; they are complex mental health conditions that benefit from therapy, counselling, and understanding.

Eating and Feeding Disorders - भोजन और आहार विकार

Medical Term:
Eating and feeding disorders involve abnormal eating behaviours that harm physical or mental health. Examples include Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder.

Common Hindi Perception:
Often referred to as "भूख की कमी" (Bhukh ki Kami) or "ज्यादा खाने की आदत" (Zyada Khane ki Aadat), these terms oversimplify the conditions, viewing them as poor habits or simple choices rather than serious mental health issues.

Key Message:
Eating disorders are not just about food; they are tied to self-image, emotions, and mental health. Professional help, including therapy and medical care, is essential for recovery.

Autism Spectrum Disorder - स्वलीनता

Medical Term:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior. It ranges in severity and is often accompanied by unique strengths and challenges.

Common Hindi Perception:
Autism is sometimes referred to as "मंद बुद्धि" (Mand Buddhi) or "मानसिक कमजोरी" (Mansik Kamzori), which inaccurately portray it as a form of intellectual disability. This misunderstanding can lead to stigma and lack of appropriate support.

Key Message:
Autism is not a mental deficiency; it is a spectrum condition with diverse expressions. Early intervention, inclusive education, and understanding can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with ASD.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ध्यान कमी और अति सक्रियता विकार

Medical Term:
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning. It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, behaviours associated with ADHD are often labelled as "शरारती बच्चा" (Shararti Bachcha) or "चंचल स्वभाव" (Chanchal Swabhav), reducing the condition to naughtiness or restlessness. This trivializes the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD.

Key Message:
ADHD is not just misbehaviour or lack of discipline; it is a medical condition that can be managed with therapy, behavioural strategies, and, in some cases, medication. Early intervention is key.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder - जुनूनी बाध्यता विकार

Medical Term:
OCD involves repetitive, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) performed to alleviate distress. It significantly impacts daily life and functioning.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, OCD is often referred to as "साफ-सफाई का पागलपन" (Saf-Safai ka Pagalpan) or "जुनून" (Junoon), inaccurately limiting it to cleaning habits or obsessive tendencies without understanding the emotional distress behind it.

Key Message:
OCD is not a personality trait or preference for neatness—it is a serious condition requiring professional help through cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and, sometimes, medication.

Somatoform Disorders - दैहिक रूप विकार

Medical Term:
Somatoform disorders involve physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical conditions. These symptoms often stem from psychological distress and are not "fake" or imagined.

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, these conditions are dismissed as "नखरा" (Nakhra) or "बहाना" (Bahana), implying attention-seeking behavior or malingering. Such attitudes ignore the genuine distress experienced by individuals with these disorders.

Key Message:
Somatoform disorders are real and distressing conditions. Psychological support, therapy, and a compassionate approach can help individuals manage symptoms effectively.

Sleep Disorders - नींद विकार

Medical Term:
Sleep disorders refer to conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, including insomnia (difficulty sleeping), hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness), sleep apnoea (breathing interruptions during sleep), and parasomnias (unusual behaviours during sleep like sleepwalking).

Common Hindi Perception:
In Hindi, sleep problems are often dismissed as "नींद न आना" (Neend Na Aana) or "थकान की वजह से सोना" (Thakaan Ki Vajah Se Sona), oversimplifying the issue as minor lifestyle concerns or fatigue.

Key Message:
Sleep disorders are not mere inconveniences—they significantly affect mental and physical health. Proper diagnosis and treatment, including sleep hygiene, therapy, or medical interventions, can restore quality sleep.

Conduct Disorder - आचरण विकार

Medical Term:
Conduct disorder is a behavioural condition seen in children and adolescents characterized by a persistent pattern of violating societal norms, rules, or the rights of others. Symptoms may include aggression, deceitfulness, and destruction of property.

Common Hindi Perception:
Children with conduct disorder are often labelled as "बदमाश" (Badmash) or "खराब बच्चा" (Kharab Bachcha), suggesting moral failings rather than understanding the behaviour as a mental health issue.

Key Message:
Conduct disorder is not about being "bad" but about underlying emotional and behavioural challenges. Early intervention with therapy, parenting support, and school involvement is essential for helping these children.

Let’s change the conversation around mental health. Using accurate terms and reducing stigma, we can ensure those in need receive compassion and support. Awareness is the first step toward creating a healthier society.