Naming psychosis: the Hong Kong experience

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health Communication
• Cross-cultural Psychology

Background:

• The Chinese translation for schizophrenia, 'Mind Split Disease,' carries significant stigma.
• A narrow focus on schizophrenia alone is inadequate for early psychosis detection and intervention.
• Hong Kong's Early Assessment Service for Young People with Psychosis required improved communication strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a new, less stigmatizing Chinese term for psychosis.
• To broaden the public's understanding of psychotic disorders beyond schizophrenia.
• To facilitate effective communication and public awareness campaigns.

Main Methods:

• A new term, 'Si Jue Shi Tiao' (thought and perceptual dysregulation), was developed for psychosis.
• This new terminology was strategically introduced to the Hong Kong community.
• Public reception and community interaction with the new term were observed.

Main Results:

• 'Si Jue Shi Tiao' was well-received and adopted within local Chinese and East Asian communities.
• The public embraced the broader concept of psychosis, moving beyond the limited view of schizophrenia.
• The new term facilitated improved communication and public engagement.

Conclusions:

• The introduction of 'Si Jue Shi Tiao' broadened the perception of psychotic disorders in Hong Kong.
• This less stigmatizing term provides a foundation for communication and public education.
• Further evaluation is needed to assess the long-term effectiveness of the new terminology for public awareness.