Sanewashing is one such term that has risen to prominence.
The individual being “sanewashed” is usually a public figure.
Essentially, these are methods of manipulating how the general public is exposed to certain events.
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What’s Wrong With Using “Sanewashing”?
So, what’s the problem with sanewashing as a term?
Those who use it may be well-meaning.
and trying to defend their principles, after all.
At least not by any accepted clinical mental health standard as laid out inthe DSM, for example.
Sanewashing can fall into this category.
And evil doesn’t have a space in the mental health arena, it just is evil.
It is important to use the appropriate label," she says.
Patricia Dixon, a therapist.
“Because what’s normal to one person might not be to another…
It becomes this question: what really is sanity?
And that might be what becomes somewhat offensive to people.
Intended or not, individuals with mental health issues may feel like they are being targeted.
In fact, people who hold a mental health disorder are more likely to be victimized by others.
So, whenever we’re using those labels to attempt to say otherwise, it perpetuates further stigma.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need us to tell you that words have power.
However, words like sanewashing can have an outsized effect on those already struggling with their mental health.
