APS
2026 APS Annual Convention · 2026
More Than Words: Lay Perceptions of Mental-Health Terminology across Context and Severity
- Ceouna Hegwood
University of California - Irvine (Department of Psychological Science) - Lindsay Healey
Integrated Forensic Program and the University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research (IMHR) at The Royal - Alex Kyebasuuta-Portouw
The Chicago School- Anaheim - Michelle Zernick
Southern Methodist University - Jason Schiffman
University of California, Irvine
Abstract
This mixed-methods study examined how young adults perceive five common mental-health terms. Findings show that mental illness and mental disorder are viewed as most severe and treatment-relevant, while mental health concern is broad and non-clinical. Psychological issue/distress occupy a middle ground. Results highlight terminology’s role in stigma, perception, and help-seeking.
