The power of language: Use in psychiatry

Abstract

Language dictates how individuals process and understand concepts. This phenomenon is examined for the terms 'antipsychotic' and 'antidepressant'. When the use of medications is extended in new directions (for example when an antipsychotic is used as an antidepressant), the name not only loses its utility, but may become an obstacle to treatment. Clinicians need to be aware of these issues.