Disorder (as a Clinical Term)

Let’s be honest — the word “disorder” shows up a lot in official diagnoses. You’ve probably seen it in terms like Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Coordination Disorder, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Now, here’s the thing. In medical settings, “disorder” is basically just filing system language. It’s how professionals group similar experiences together so they can understand what’s happening and figure out how to help. Nothing more sinister than that.

But when you’re the person being described? That word can feel pretty heavy.

Think about it — if someone told you that you had a “disorder,” what would that bring up for you? For a lot of neurodivergent folks, it can feel like there’s an implication that something’s wrong, broken, or needs to be fixed. And that’s just not how most of us see ourselves or our brains.

So what do people do instead? They take ownership of the language. You’ll hear people say:

• “I’m autistic” instead of “I have ASD”
• “I’m dyspraxic” instead of “I have DCD”
• “I have ADHD” (but they might not bother with the full name)

This isn’t about rejecting medical support or pretending diagnoses don’t matter. They absolutely do — they can open doors to understanding, community, and support that can be life-changing.

It’s just about choosing words that feel right for you. Words that celebrate who you are rather than suggesting you’re somehow defective.

You get to decide how you talk about yourself. Medical terms when you need them, identity-first language when that feels better. Your brain, your choice of words.