In recent years, discussions surrounding mental health have gained traction, albeit not to the extent we might hope. Often, we concentrate on the distance we have yet to cover toward creating a society that fully embraces mental health issues, neglecting to appreciate the progress we've already made. To illustrate, the term "hysteria" was officially removed from the American Psychiatric Association's terminology only in 1952. Despite the advancements of the suffragette movement and other societal changes, women continued to be labeled as hysterical instead of receiving appropriate treatment for mental health concerns just 70 years ago.

One significant barrier to our growth in understanding mental illness—the proverbial glass ceiling—is the limitations of the English language. Compared to other languages, English offers less nuance in describing emotional states.

For instance, in Dutch, one can distinguish between the color "orange" and the fruit "orange," while Tamil boasts over 50 terms to convey different types of love. This isn't to suggest that a simple fruit distinction holds the key to healing, but rather that our linguistic constraints may hinder our ability to express our emotional experiences. If we had a richer vocabulary to articulate feelings of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, we might feel more acknowledged and understood.

Personally, I've found it challenging to communicate my mental state to my boyfriend using conventional terms like "depressed" or "anxious," as these labels often fail to capture the complexity of my experiences. When grappling with depression, my feelings can manifest in various ways—sometimes I describe it as feeling like a cactus, prickly and defensive, or as a hollow shell, reaching for my heartbeat to confirm its presence. At times, I experience intense physical pain, as if my body has endured a marathon or a fall. It has taken me years to articulate my feelings without relying on precise labels, a skill honed through a passion for writing. However, others may not yet be equipped with the vocabulary necessary to express their feelings adequately.

So why is it essential to discuss these feelings? While it might seem obvious, many individuals struggling with mental health issues often hesitate to share their experiences. Those who have opened up will attest to the relief that accompanies sharing, yet it can be difficult to embrace that notion initially. It's akin to the familiar advice from parents about maintaining a tidy room—much easier than tackling a mess all at once.

The benefits of sharing one's mental health challenges are manifold. First, it fosters a sense of community; realizing you're not alone in your struggles can be eye-opening. Many friends or acquaintances may have faced their own difficulties, offering empathy or support. Secondly, sharing burdens lightens the load, making it feel less overwhelming. Finally, discussing harmful behaviors can reduce the likelihood of continuing them.

Now, let's delve into a selection of words that I believe should be embraced in our mental health vocabulary. My list could go on indefinitely, but I will focus on those that are particularly relevant to our discussions about mental health—imagine if we had a "Mental Health Dictionary" to distribute during formative years!

Let's begin:

1. Saudade (Portuguese)

   This term captures a deep sense of nostalgia, a yearning for someone or something that may never return. It encompasses a bittersweet longing, highlighting how we can sometimes find pleasure in our pain.

2. Hi Fun Kou Gai (Japanese)

   This expression describes a righteous anger stemming from witnessing injustice or despair in unchangeable circumstances. It resonates with those moments when global issues feel insurmountable, leaving one feeling helpless.

3. Weltschmerz (German)

   This word conveys a profound melancholy rooted in the belief that the world is not as it should be, reflecting a sense of sadness for others and their struggles.

4. Mono No Aware (Japanese)

   A poignant term that captures the sadness associated with the fleeting nature of life, reminding us of the transience of existence and the bittersweet beauty of impermanence.

5. Dépit (French)

   This word encapsulates those irritable days when minor annoyances seem magnified. It provides a way to articulate those feelings without placing blame on others.

6. Lebensmüde (German)

   Literally meaning "life-tired," this term describes a profound sense of exhaustion with life itself, often manifesting in withdrawal or risky behavior.

7. Tante (Chinese)

   This term conveys a state of anxiety or nervousness without a clear cause, characterizing the physical sensations that often accompany such feelings.

8. Mutterseelenallein (German)

   This deep-seated feeling of existential loneliness transcends mere isolation, embodying the essence of abandonment and emptiness.

9. Wintercearig (Old English)

   An archaic term meaning "winter-care," it metaphorically represents deep sadness akin to the relentless cold of winter, encapsulating the weight of despair.

While I could continue to expand this list, I recognize the challenge of publishing a comprehensive dictionary. Nonetheless, I hope these terms provide insight, affirmation, or a means to articulate your feelings more effectively.

Regardless of whether you adopt these words or develop your own, the key is to express your emotions. Communicating how you feel—no matter how trivial it may seem—can foster understanding and support from those around you. Remember, even if it feels absurd, sharing your experience is a crucial first step toward connection and healing.

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Originally published at https://symptomsofliving.com.