languishing
/ˈlæŋɡwɪʃɪŋ/
Definition
A state of psychological functioning characterized by low levels of mental well-being, often involving a lack of purpose, interest, or enthusiasm, even in the absence of a diagnosed mental illness.
Etymology
Derived from the Middle English 'languishen,' which comes from the Old French 'languiss-,' the stem of 'languir,' meaning to become weak or faint. It traces back to the Latin 'languere,' which describes being faint, weary, or sluggish.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe one end of a 'mental health continuum,' representing a state where individuals lack positive mental health despite not necessarily suffering from a formal mental disorder. This highlights the article's argument that mental healthcare must address more than just the absence of illness.
Mental illness, mental health, and mental well-being - npj Mental Health Research
Read the full article ↗Nature