The rise of therapy jargon: Why modern conversations are shaped by mental health language
Trauma bonding, narcissism, gaslighting, and even ghosting—terms that may seem unfamiliar to older generations—have gradually become part of the everyday vocabulary of the youth today.
SOUNDER RAJEN05 Feb 2025 01:00pm

Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Canva
The question is, why?
These terms are often referred to as "therapy language" or jargon, commonly used by therapists, psychologists and mental health professionals to describe complex emotional and psychological dynamics.
Until the past decade or so, such terms were rarely used in casual conversation. So, what has changed?
These once-clinical terms have now made their way into the daily vocabulary of young people.
Preeyankaa Reveedren, 30, a Marketing Executive at INTI International University, frequently engages with Gen Z students aspiring to complete their degrees.
According to her, the shift in mentality can be traced back to the widespread exposure of therapy-related terms like narcissism, gaslighting, and bipolar disorder on social media platforms, which has helped rebrand therapy from a once-taboo subject.
"The younger generation has glamorised therapy, turning it into a trend rather than something reserved for those with a diagnosed mental illness or serious trauma.
"They are less likely to see therapy as a sign that something is wrong and more as an opportunity to better themselves.
"Many Gen Z students view therapy as a tool for self-improvement, rather than a last resort."
Another university student, Muhammad Syafique Noor Azizan, 24, said that the widespread use of therapy-related jargon can be attributed to the easy access to psychological content online.
With platforms like TikTok and Instagram offering quick, digestible information, these terms have become deeply embedded in everyday conversations.
“With the ease of access to this kind of information, you can easily become a target for others to label you,” Syafique commented.
"We need to be mindful of the content we consume online, as many so-called 'experts' who are untrained may give unsolicited medical advice that could ultimately harm you."
Both Preeyankaa and Syafique agree that, while previous generations may perceive Gen Z as having a weaker mental state, for them, acknowledging and seeking help when facing mental health challenges is a sign of courage.
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