REPRESENTATION OF MENTAL STATES IN DIACHRONIC PERSPECTIVE

2022.

Tsygunova M.

This report is one in the series of works contributing to the research of metaphors representing mental states. However, this time the objective is to provide the analysis of sociocultural and historical aspects surrounding the subject. This lays down the foundation for the theoretical part of research. Overall, a content analysis along with a questionnaire show several trends. The report highlights the contrast between the state of higher awareness in terms of mental health now with the previous stigma-driven and even unscientific approach. In addition, this work draws attention to a new pattern in today's era of "acceptance". In this light, the phenomena of romanticisation, glorification and monetisation of mental health are considered. For this part, examples are also drawn from film and literature. On top of that, in relation to modern trends, language mechanisms for recognising such conditions as depression, anxiety and stress are pointed out (i.e., metaphors). The relevance of the report lies in the global pandemic of depressive and anxiety disorders, the transition from taboo to harmful “fashion” around these conditions in society. Another important step is the discussion about the recognition of verbal behaviour in the context of mental states.

Keywords: discourse, metaphors, mental health, depression, sociocultural context