Are We Pathologising Being Human
Author: Lynda Chebbihi
Photo: AI-generated image of a calm space for self-reflection.
Awareness of mental health has increased in recent years. This shift brings benefits. It reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking. Yet it also presents risk. I have observed a growing trend where psychological labels are adopted without formal clinical assessment and used as fixed identity markers.
This trend appears more visible among younger generations. Social media amplifies it. Diagnostic language circulates widely. Distress becomes framed as disorder rather than as a normal response to pressure, uncertainty or adversity.
Human neurobiology evolved to detect threat. When the nervous system senses risk through neuroception, it activates survival responses. The body mobilises for fight or flight. If threat feels inescapable, it may shift into immobilisation, dissociation or shutdown. These processes occur automatically and outside conscious control. They are adaptive responses designed for survival.
When normal stress responses become pathologised, agency reduces. Psychological flexibility narrows. People begin to view difficulty as evidence of internal defect rather than as information about context, unmet needs or environmental stressors.
Rigid diagnostic identities also influence relationships. They may lower tolerance for frustration. They may reinforce inflexible thinking. Disagreement becomes invalidation. Boundaries become perceived harm. Responsibility shifts outward. Over time, this pattern weakens resilience and empathy.
Diagnostic labels serve a vital role when grounded in thorough clinical evaluation. They guide treatment and support. Problems arise when labels become shields against growth or accountability. Identity formation in adolescence and early adulthood requires stable relationships, reflective dialogue and emotional safety. Online validation cannot replace secure attachment.
Neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology highlight the role of relational attachment, connection and integrated mind-body functioning, advocating for growth-oriented and non-pathologising approaches.
Trust your process.
Bibliography
Siegel, D.J., Schore, A.N. and Cozolino, L.J. (eds) (2021). Interpersonal Neurobiology and Clinical Practice. W.W. Norton & Company (The Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology).
Porges, S.W. (2017). The pocket guide to the polyvagal theory: the transformative power of feeling safe. First edition. W. W Norton & Company (The Norton series on interpersonal neurobiology).
