I think that the 'nigger/black' analogy is indeed closer to what I meant. Although I will direct your attention to the following book - sold on MIND's website. Mad Pride. Ultimately I think that it's how you treat people that is more important than keeping up with the current 'in vogue' terminology. And having a bit of the old 'bad brain chemistry' myself, I definately understand that it's an illness - not a lifestyle choice. I also agree that the key thing is the 'illness' (without going into all the baggage that that word entails. If someone wants/needs help then I'm going to do my best to get it for them - if it's the heart attack, the bellyache or the DSH showing me her latest cut.