THE RISE OF THERAPY SPEAK

Therapy speak - or psychological terminology – is on the rise. While it gives us more language to protect our peace, it can also be a destructive force in our friendships and relationships. Here's why.

- HELEN WALLACE

• And how it can ruin your relationships

Over the past decade, attitudes towards therapy - and the terminology and concepts that go along with it-have shifted. With seeing a shrink being significantly less taboo (I have one!), and more and more people seeking professional help for their mental anguish, it makes sense that our knowledge of psychology and how it can benefit our lives has become almost mainstream. So mainstream, in fact, that you don't need to scroll for too long on social media to find endless posts and videos talking about everything from 'How to set boundaries' to '10 signs your ex is a narcissist'. (Everyone's ex, it seems, is a narcissist.)

Although it's hardly a good idea to follow the advice of selfproclaimed therapists on Instagram and TikTok, many people are doing it anyway. It makes sense - these platforms offer a way of getting free insights from those with experience in the field. But this has given rise to a different problem: The language and terms that are meant to empower us are also starting to have a negative, even selfish, side-effect.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

Let's be clear: People becoming more aware of their mental health, and of ways in which they can improve and protect it, is obviously a good thing. "The main benefits of increased awareness are gaining and showing support, and decreasing stigma,' says counselling psychologist Dayna Smith. 'People have started to realise that their mental health is a major factor contributing to overall wellbeing, and they feel more comfortable sharing their struggles and accepting help from the people around them - which, in turn, allows others to open up about their difficulties."