Top 57 Slang For Disorder – Meaning & Usage

Living with a disorder can be challenging, but understanding the slang associated with it can make navigating conversations a bit easier. In this article, we’ve gathered some of the most common and impactful slang terms used to describe various disorders. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge or simply stay in the loop, we’ve got you covered with this insightful list.

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1. Screw loose

This phrase is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or has erratic behavior. It suggests that the person may have a loose screw in their head, meaning that something is not quite right.

For example, “He’s always talking to himself and laughing for no reason. He definitely has a screw loose.”
When discussing someone’s unusual behavior, one might say, “She’s a bit eccentric, like she has a screw loose or something.”
In a comedic context, a character might say, “I must have a screw loose to put up with this nonsense!”

2. Basket case

This term refers to someone who is emotionally unstable or unable to cope with the pressures of life. It suggests that the person is like a fragile “basket” that is falling apart.

For instance, “Ever since her breakup, she’s been a complete basket case.”
When describing someone’s emotional state, one might say, “He’s a total basket case right now, unable to handle even the smallest stress.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might mention, “I had a period in my life where I felt like a complete basket case.”

3. Loony

This word is used to describe someone who is crazy, insane, or mentally unstable. It is a shortened form of “lunatic.”

For example, “Did you hear what he did? He’s completely loony!”
When discussing someone’s erratic behavior, one might say, “She’s acting like a loony person today.”
In a lighthearted context, a person might jokingly refer to themselves as a loony, saying, “I’m a bit of a loony when it comes to organizing my sock drawer.”

4. Nut job

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or exhibits strange behavior. It suggests that the person is a “job” for a mental health professional.

For instance, “I can’t believe he believes in conspiracy theories. He’s a real nut job.”
When discussing someone’s unusual beliefs, one might say, “She’s a total nut job with all her conspiracy theories.”
In a conversation about strange encounters, someone might share, “I once met a real nut job on the bus who claimed to be an alien.”

5. Wacko

This word is used to describe someone who is crazy, eccentric, or mentally unstable. It suggests that the person’s behavior is “wacky” or out of the ordinary.

For example, “He’s always coming up with bizarre ideas. He’s a real wacko.”
When discussing someone’s strange behavior, one might say, “She’s acting like a total wacko today.”
In a conversation about unusual hobbies or interests, someone might mention, “I know this guy who collects rubber ducks. He’s a bit of a wacko.”

6. Off their rocker

This slang term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or irrational. It implies that the person is not thinking clearly or behaving in a normal manner.

For example, “He’s completely off his rocker. He’s been talking to imaginary friends all day.”
In a conversation about someone’s strange behavior, one might say, “She’s really off her rocker lately. I’m worried about her.”
A person might use this term to describe their own state of mind, saying, “I feel like I’m going off my rocker with all this stress.”

7. Bonkers

Bonkers is a slang term that means crazy or mad. It is often used to describe someone or something that is behaving in a wild or irrational manner.

For instance, “The party last night was absolutely bonkers. People were dancing on tables and throwing drinks.”
A person might describe a chaotic situation by saying, “It’s been bonkers at work lately. We’re understaffed and everything is falling apart.”
Another might use this term to express disbelief or astonishment, saying, “You won the lottery? That’s bonkers!”

8. Cuckoo

Cuckoo is a slang term used to describe someone who is crazy or mentally unstable. It is often used to emphasize someone’s irrational behavior or thoughts.

For example, “He’s gone completely cuckoo. He thinks aliens are spying on him.”
In a conversation about someone’s odd habits, one might say, “She’s a bit cuckoo, always collecting strange objects.”
A person might use this term to describe their own state of mind, saying, “I feel like I’m going cuckoo with all this stress.”

9. Cray-cray

Cray-cray is a slang term that means crazy or insane. It is a playful and exaggerated way of expressing someone’s irrational behavior or thoughts.

For instance, “The party last night was so cray-cray. People were jumping into the pool fully clothed.”
A person might describe a chaotic situation by saying, “The traffic during rush hour is always cray-cray.”
Another might use this term to express disbelief or astonishment, saying, “You’re going on a round-the-world trip? That’s cray-cray!”

10. Psycho

Psycho is a slang term used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or deranged. It implies that the person has violent or unpredictable behavior.

For example, “Stay away from him, he’s a psycho. He’s been stalking me for months.”
In a conversation about someone’s erratic actions, one might say, “She went psycho when she found out her boyfriend cheated on her.”
A person might use this term to describe their own state of mind, saying, “I feel like I’m going psycho with all this pressure.”

11. Nutter

A derogatory term used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or exhibits irrational behavior. It is considered offensive and should be avoided.

For example, “Don’t listen to him, he’s a nutter.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “Using terms like ‘nutter’ only perpetuates stigma.”
Another person might comment, “We should focus on understanding and empathy instead of labeling someone as a nutter.”

12. Schizo

A slang term derived from the medical condition schizophrenia, which is a serious mental disorder characterized by abnormal social behavior and a failure to recognize what is real. This term is considered offensive and should not be used.

For instance, “He’s acting schizo, talking to himself and seeing things.”
In a discussion about mental health awareness, someone might point out, “Using terms like ‘schizo’ only adds to the stigma.”
Another person might say, “Let’s educate ourselves about schizophrenia instead of using it as a derogatory term.”

13. Whacko

A slang term used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or exhibits bizarre behavior. This term is considered derogatory and should be avoided.

For example, “Stay away from that guy, he’s a total whacko.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “Using terms like ‘whacko’ only perpetuates stigma.”
Another person might comment, “Let’s focus on understanding and supporting individuals with mental health challenges instead of labeling them as whackos.”

14. Loopy

A slang term used to describe someone who is eccentric, unpredictable, or mentally unstable. It is often used in a lighthearted or joking manner, but can still be offensive to some.

For instance, “She’s a bit loopy, always coming up with strange ideas.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might point out, “Using terms like ‘loopy’ can undermine the seriousness of mental disorders.”
Another person might say, “Let’s be mindful of the language we use and avoid using terms that can hurt or stigmatize others.”

15. Batty

A slang term used to describe someone who is eccentric, unpredictable, or mentally unstable. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner, but can still be offensive to some.

For example, “He’s a bit batty, always talking to imaginary friends.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “Using terms like ‘batty’ can perpetuate stereotypes and stigma.”
Another person might comment, “Let’s promote understanding and empathy instead of using derogatory terms like ‘batty’.”

16. Cracked

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or mentally ill. It implies that the person’s mind is “cracked” or broken.

For example, “He’s completely cracked, talking to himself and seeing things that aren’t there.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “People with cracked minds often struggle to function in everyday life.”
A person might describe their own experiences with mental illness by saying, “I’ve felt cracked for as long as I can remember.”

17. Deranged

This term refers to someone who is mentally disturbed or mentally unbalanced. It suggests a state of extreme mental disorder.

For instance, “The deranged man went on a rampage, attacking anyone in his path.”
In a conversation about criminal behavior, someone might say, “Deranged individuals can often commit violent acts without any rational motive.”
A person might describe a chaotic situation by saying, “The scene was deranged, with people screaming and running in all directions.”

18. Unhinged

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or emotionally unpredictable. It suggests that the person’s mental state is “unhinged” or not securely attached.

For example, “She became unhinged after her husband left her, lashing out at anyone who tried to help.”
In a discussion about emotional well-being, someone might say, “An unhinged person may struggle to maintain healthy relationships.”
A person might describe their own feelings of emotional instability by saying, “I feel completely unhinged, like I could snap at any moment.”

19. Mad as a hatter

This term originates from the phrase “mad as a hatter,” which refers to the mental deterioration experienced by hatmakers who were exposed to toxic mercury fumes. It is used to describe someone who is completely insane or mentally unbalanced.

For instance, “He’s as mad as a hatter, talking to imaginary friends and believing in conspiracy theories.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “People who are mad as a hatter often exhibit irrational behavior.”
A person might describe a situation that is chaotic or nonsensical by saying, “It was mad as a hatter, with everyone shouting and nobody listening.”

20. Out of their mind

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or irrational. It suggests that the person’s mind is not functioning normally.

For example, “She’s completely out of her mind, making wild accusations and behaving erratically.”
In a discussion about mental illness, someone might say, “People who are out of their mind often struggle to distinguish between reality and fantasy.”
A person might describe their own experiences with mental health by saying, “I’ve felt out of my mind at times, like I’m living in a different reality.”

21. Off one’s rocker

This phrase is used to describe someone who is behaving in a bizarre or irrational manner. It implies that the person is mentally unstable or out of touch with reality.

For example, “After hearing about his latest conspiracy theory, I think he’s completely off his rocker.”
Someone might say, “She’s been acting so strange lately, like she’s off her rocker or something.”
In a discussion about eccentric behavior, a person might comment, “Some people are just a little off their rockers, but that’s what makes them interesting.”

22. Loony tunes

This slang term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or exhibiting erratic behavior. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner.

For instance, “He’s always coming up with these wild ideas. He’s like a character from Loony Tunes.”
A person might say, “I feel like I’m going a bit loony tunes with all the stress lately.”
In a conversation about unusual habits, someone might jokingly remark, “I must be a little loony tunes to organize my bookshelf by color.”

23. Bipolar

This term is used colloquially to describe someone who experiences extreme mood swings or shifts in emotions. It refers to the medical condition known as bipolar disorder.

For example, “She’s been acting really happy and energetic one moment, and then completely down and depressed the next. It’s like she’s bipolar.”
A person might say, “I think the weather is bipolar today. It was sunny this morning, and now it’s pouring rain.”
In a discussion about emotional stability, someone might comment, “Life can be a bit bipolar sometimes, throwing unexpected challenges our way.”

24. OCD

This acronym stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which is a mental health condition characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. It is often used informally to describe someone who is excessively neat, organized, or particular about certain things.

For instance, “I have OCD when it comes to keeping my desk clean and organized.”
A person might say, “She’s so OCD about her appearance. She spends hours getting ready.”
In a conversation about perfectionism, someone might comment, “I think I have a touch of OCD when it comes to my work. I can’t stand any mistakes.”

25. ADD

This acronym stands for Attention Deficit Disorder, which is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It is often used informally to describe someone who is easily distracted or has a short attention span.

For example, “I can’t focus on this task for more than a few minutes. I must have ADD.”
A person might say, “He’s always jumping from one activity to another. I think he has ADD.”
In a discussion about multitasking, someone might comment, “I feel like I have ADD sometimes with how many things I’m trying to do at once.”

26. ADHD

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. It is commonly diagnosed in children, but can also persist into adulthood.

For example, a parent might say, “My child was diagnosed with ADHD and we are exploring treatment options.”
A teacher might note, “Students with ADHD often benefit from accommodations such as preferential seating or extra time on assignments.”
A person with ADHD might describe their experience, “I struggle with staying focused and often feel restless and impulsive.”

27. Loon

This term is used to describe someone who is eccentric, irrational, or mentally unstable. It is often used in a lighthearted or joking manner.

For instance, a friend might playfully say, “You’re such a loon!”
In a comedy movie, a character might exclaim, “That guy is a total loon!”
A person might use the term to describe themselves, saying, “Sometimes I feel like a loon with all the thoughts racing through my head.”

28. Crackpot

This term is used to describe someone who holds unconventional or outlandish beliefs. It implies that the person is mentally unstable or irrational.

For example, a person might say, “That conspiracy theorist is a crackpot.”
In a political discussion, someone might dismiss an extreme viewpoint by saying, “That’s just crackpot nonsense.”
A friend might playfully tease another, saying, “You’re such a crackpot with all your wild ideas!”

29. Fruit loop

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or behaves in an irrational or eccentric manner. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful way.

For instance, a person might say, “Don’t mind him, he’s a bit of a fruit loop.”
In a comedy show, a character might exclaim, “You’re all a bunch of fruit loops!”
A friend might affectionately tease another, saying, “You’re my favorite fruit loop!”

30. Out of one’s mind

This phrase is used to describe someone who is behaving in a mentally unstable or irrational manner. It suggests that the person has lost touch with reality.

For example, a person might say, “He’s completely out of his mind, talking to imaginary friends.”
In a stressful situation, someone might exclaim, “I feel like I’m going out of my mind!”
A friend might express concern, saying, “You’re acting out of your mind lately, are you okay?”

31. Mental case

This term is used to describe someone who is perceived as mentally unstable or deranged. It is often used in a derogatory manner.

For example, “He’s a total mental case, always talking to himself.”
In a discussion about someone’s erratic behavior, one might say, “She’s acting like a mental case lately.”
A person might use this term to dismiss someone’s opinions, saying, “Don’t listen to him, he’s just a mental case.”

32. Crazypants

This slang term is used to describe someone or something that is extremely crazy, bizarre, or eccentric. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.

For instance, “That party last night was crazypants, people were dancing on tables.”
When describing an outrageous story, one might say, “You won’t believe what happened, it was absolutely crazypants.”
A person might use this term to describe a wild and unconventional fashion choice, saying, “She showed up wearing this crazypants outfit.”

33. Bizarre

This term is used to describe something that is very strange, unusual, or out of the ordinary. It can refer to a person, situation, or object.

For example, “The whole situation was bizarre, I couldn’t make sense of it.”
When describing a peculiar behavior, one might say, “He has some bizarre habits, like collecting toenail clippings.”
A person might use this term to describe a weird and unexpected twist in a story, saying, “The ending of that movie was so bizarre, I didn’t see it coming.”

34. Freaky

This slang term is used to describe something that is strange, creepy, or unsettling. It can refer to a person, situation, or experience.

For instance, “That haunted house was so freaky, I couldn’t sleep for days.”
When describing a person’s unconventional appearance, one might say, “She has this freaky hairstyle that always turns heads.”
A person might use this term to describe a disturbing or eerie dream, saying, “I had this freaky dream last night, it felt so real.”

35. Unbalanced

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or emotionally disturbed. It implies a lack of stability or equilibrium.

For example, “He’s been acting really unbalanced lately, I’m worried about him.”
When discussing someone’s erratic behavior, one might say, “Her emotional outbursts make her seem unbalanced.”
A person might use this term to describe a person’s irrational thoughts or beliefs, saying, “His conspiracy theories show that he’s unbalanced.”

36. Disturbed

This term refers to someone who is emotionally or mentally unstable, often exhibiting erratic or abnormal behavior.

For example, “He’s been acting really disturbed lately, talking to himself and avoiding eye contact.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “It’s important to seek help if you’re feeling disturbed.”
A friend might express concern, saying, “I’m worried about her. She seems really disturbed and withdrawn.”

37. Unstable

This term describes someone who lacks emotional or mental stability, often experiencing mood swings or unpredictable behavior.

For instance, “He’s been acting really unstable lately, going from laughing to crying in a matter of minutes.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “It’s difficult to be with someone who is emotionally unstable.”
A therapist might discuss treatment options, saying, “We need to address the underlying issues that are causing her to feel so unstable.”

38. Eccentric

This term refers to someone who behaves or thinks in a way that is unconventional or peculiar, often seen as strange or odd by others.

For example, “She’s known for her eccentric fashion choices and unique sense of style.”
In a discussion about artists, someone might say, “Many creative geniuses are known for their eccentric personalities.”
A friend might describe someone they know, saying, “He’s a bit eccentric, always coming up with wild ideas and theories.”

39. Troubled

This term describes someone who is experiencing emotional or psychological distress, often due to difficult life circumstances or mental health issues.

For instance, “She’s had a troubled past and has struggled with addiction.”
In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “It’s important to offer support to those who are troubled.”
A parent might express concern, saying, “I’m worried about my son. He seems really troubled and withdrawn lately.”

40. Delusional

This term refers to someone who holds persistent false beliefs or ideas, often despite evidence to the contrary. It is often associated with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.

For example, “He’s convinced that the government is spying on him. He’s completely delusional.”
In a discussion about conspiracy theories, someone might say, “Some people become delusional and believe in wild conspiracy theories.”
A psychologist might discuss treatment options, saying, “We need to address the delusions and help the patient develop more realistic beliefs.”

41. Paranoid

Paranoid is a term used to describe someone who is excessively suspicious or fearful, often without reason. It can refer to a mental state characterized by irrational thoughts and beliefs.

For example, “He’s always looking over his shoulder and thinking people are out to get him. He’s so paranoid.”
Someone might say, “I don’t want to go out tonight. I’m feeling really paranoid and anxious.”
In a discussion about mental health, a person might mention, “Paranoid thoughts can be a symptom of certain psychiatric disorders.”

42. Manic

Manic refers to a state of extreme energy, excitement, and impulsiveness. It is often associated with bipolar disorder and is characterized by periods of elevated mood and hyperactivity.

For instance, “She’s been acting really manic lately, talking a mile a minute and taking on multiple projects.”
A person might say, “I didn’t sleep for three days straight. I was in a manic episode.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might mention, “Manic episodes can be followed by periods of depression.”

43. Demented

Demented is a derogatory term used to describe someone who is perceived as crazy or insane. It can be used to refer to someone with a severe mental illness or someone who behaves in a bizarre or irrational manner.

For example, “He went on a demented rant, shouting and throwing things.”
A person might say, “The movie was so demented, I couldn’t follow the plot.”
In a discussion about mental health stigma, someone might point out, “Using terms like ‘demented’ perpetuates negative stereotypes about mental illness.”

44. Cracked up

Cracked up is a slang term used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or disturbed. It suggests that the person is emotionally or psychologically broken.

For instance, “After the accident, he was really cracked up and couldn’t function normally.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling so cracked up lately, like I’m falling apart.”
In a discussion about trauma, someone might mention, “Experiencing a traumatic event can leave a person feeling cracked up and unable to cope.”

45. Buggy

Buggy is a slang term used to describe someone or something that is behaving in an irrational or strange manner. It can refer to a person who is acting unpredictably or a situation that is confusing or unsettling.

For example, “He’s been acting really buggy lately, saying things that don’t make sense.”
A person might say, “The software is so buggy, it keeps crashing.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might mention, “Certain medications can cause side effects that make a person feel buggy or disoriented.”

46. Nuts

This term is often used colloquially to describe someone who is mentally unstable or behaving in an irrational or eccentric manner.

For example, “He went nuts and started throwing things.”
In a discussion about someone’s unusual behavior, one might say, “He’s a bit nuts, if you ask me.”
Another might comment, “I can’t believe how nuts she acted during the meeting.”

47. Screwball

This slang term is used to describe someone who is odd, strange, or unconventional in their behavior or thinking.

For instance, “He’s a real screwball. You never know what he’s going to do next.”
In a conversation about a quirky friend, one might say, “She’s a bit of a screwball, but that’s what makes her fun.”
Someone might comment, “The movie had a cast of screwball characters that kept the audience entertained.”

48. Fruitcake

This term is used to refer to someone who is mentally unstable or irrational. It is often used in a derogatory or mocking manner.

For example, “He’s a total fruitcake. You never know what he’s going to do.”
In a discussion about someone’s bizarre behavior, one might say, “She’s a real fruitcake, that one.”
Another might comment, “The guy is a fruitcake. I wouldn’t trust him with anything important.”

49. Lunatic

This slang term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or insane. It is often used in a derogatory or dismissive manner.

For instance, “He’s a complete lunatic. I wouldn’t want to be around him.”
In a conversation about someone’s erratic behavior, one might say, “She’s a bit of a lunatic, if you ask me.”
Someone might comment, “Only a lunatic would believe such a ridiculous conspiracy theory.”

50. Madman

This term is used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or insane. It implies a level of unpredictability and dangerousness.

For example, “He’s a madman. I wouldn’t want to be on his bad side.”
In a discussion about someone’s extreme behavior, one might say, “She’s a total madman. I can’t believe what she did.”
Another might comment, “The guy is a madman. He’ll stop at nothing to achieve his goals.”

51. Maniac

This term is often used to describe someone who behaves in an extremely violent or unpredictable manner. It is typically used in a derogatory way to label someone as mentally unstable.

For example, “He went on a maniac rampage, destroying everything in his path.”
In a discussion about dangerous criminals, one might say, “The serial killer was a complete maniac.”
A person frustrated with someone’s irrational behavior might exclaim, “You’re acting like a maniac!”

52. Psychopath

A psychopath is a person who lacks empathy, conscience, and remorse. They often exhibit manipulative and antisocial behavior, making them dangerous to others.

For instance, “The serial killer was diagnosed as a psychopath.”
In a conversation about mental disorders, one might say, “Psychopaths have a distinct lack of empathy.”
A person describing a heartless individual might say, “He showed no remorse for his actions. He’s a complete psychopath!”

53. Sociopath

Similar to a psychopath, a sociopath also lacks empathy and exhibits manipulative behavior. However, sociopaths are typically more impulsive and prone to erratic behavior.

For example, “The con artist was a sociopath, manipulating people for personal gain.”
In a discussion about mental health, one might say, “Sociopaths often have a disregard for the rights and feelings of others.”
A person describing someone’s erratic behavior might say, “He’s a sociopath, always acting impulsively without considering the consequences.”

54. Insane

This term is often used to describe someone who is mentally ill or behaving in an irrational manner. It can also be used more casually to describe something as extremely unusual or unbelievable.

For instance, “The insane asylum housed patients with severe mental disorders.”
In a conversation about someone’s erratic behavior, one might say, “He’s gone completely insane!”
A person describing an unbelievable event might exclaim, “That’s insane! I can’t believe it actually happened!”

55. Mad

In the context of slang for disorder, “mad” is often used to describe someone who is mentally unstable or behaving in an irrational manner. It can also be used to describe someone who is extremely angry.

For example, “The mad scientist conducted dangerous experiments in his lab.”
In a discussion about someone’s irrational behavior, one might say, “He’s gone mad!”
A person describing someone’s extreme anger might say, “He was mad with rage, shouting and throwing things.”

56. Unsound

This term is used to describe someone or something that is mentally unstable or irrational. It can also refer to ideas, arguments, or decisions that are illogical or unsound.

For example, “His behavior became increasingly unsound as the night went on.”
In a discussion about a flawed plan, someone might say, “That proposal is completely unsound.”
A person describing their thoughts during a difficult time might say, “My mind felt unsound and chaotic.”

57. Wackadoodle

This slang term is used to describe someone who behaves in an eccentric or bizarre manner. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful way to refer to someone’s unconventional behavior.

For instance, “She’s a total wackadoodle, always coming up with wild ideas.”
A person might say, “I met this wackadoodle at the party who was juggling flaming torches.”
A friend might jokingly describe someone as a “lovable wackadoodle” because of their unique personality.