Translation guide
A clinically significant disturbance in cognition, emotion regulation, or behavior. This guide helps learners express the concept naturally in Japanese, from clinical terms to everyday expressions.
The standard, neutral term for a mental disorder, used in medical, psychological, and everyday contexts.
The most common and formal term for 'mental disorder'. Used in official diagnoses, medical contexts, and general discussion.
He was diagnosed with a mental disorder.
It's important to eliminate prejudice against mental disorders.
A softer, more general expression meaning 'mental health problem'. Common in everyday conversation and media.
Recently, the number of people with mental health problems has been increasing.
Literally 'illness of the heart/mind'. A somewhat literary or empathetic term, often used in self-help or awareness contexts.
Mental illness can happen to anyone.
Referring to particular types of mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia.
Casual ways to refer to mental health struggles, often used among friends or in pop culture.
Slang meaning 'one's mental health is wrecked' or 'to be mentally broken'. Used for temporary stress or burnout.
Work was so busy that my mental health took a hit.
Literally 'one's heart breaks'. Means to lose motivation or spirit due to mental strain.
After failing many times, I lost heart.
Slang verb meaning 'to be mentally unwell' or 'to be depressed'. Often used online.
Can sound flippant or self-deprecating. Not appropriate in serious contexts.
Describing someone who has a mental disorder, with attention to politeness and sensitivity.
Person-first language: 'a person with a mental disorder'. Considered respectful.
Support for people with mental disorders is necessary.
Legal/administrative term: 'person with a mental disability'. Can sound clinical or impersonal.
May carry stigma in casual use. Prefer person-first phrasing in sensitive contexts.
Words like 気違い (きちがい, 'crazy') or 精神病 (せいしんびょう, 'mental illness' in a narrow sense) are now considered derogatory or outdated. Use 精神障害 or specific diagnostic terms instead.
The loanword メンタル is widely used in compounds like メンタルヘルス (mental health), メンタルケア (mental care), and メンタルが強い/弱い (mentally strong/weak). It's a safe, modern choice in casual and semi-formal contexts.
She has been struggling with a mental disorder for years.
Mental disorders are more common than people think.
Clinical term for 'anxiety disorder'.
There are various types of anxiety disorders.
Clinical term for 'schizophrenia'.
Symptoms of schizophrenia vary from person to person.
Clinical term for 'bipolar disorder'. Formerly called 躁うつ病 (そううつびょう).
Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings.
Umbrella term for 'developmental disorders', including autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
Developmental disorders are seen not only in children but also in adults.
I've been feeling really down lately.
Obtain a mental disability health and welfare certificate.