What do you call your problem? Labels for mental illness in four samples in the United States and in Russia

Psychiatric diagnoses can affect people with serious mental illnesses (SMI) both kt a beneficial and harmful way Prior research has focused on patients' knowledge rand endorsement of formal diagnoses This study of 489 participants in four diverse psychiatric populations used open-ended items to explore how patients understand their SMI. Less than one third used diagnostic terms, although most included a mental-illness-related explanation. More than one third expressed alternative conceptualizations, except in the sample where traditional methodology was used. Response patterns did not vary by diagnostic or demographic group. Eliciting consumers' multi-faceted ideas about their SMI may enhance both research and clinical practice.