Rafael Achacoso

Language matters. What we say, and how we say it, shapes relationships, identity, and mental well-being. Among the many ways language intersects with identity, pronouns (the small words like he/him, she/her, they/them , etc.) have become a critical site of how respect is expressed—or withheld—and how that in turn influences mental health outcomes. This piece explores how pronoun usage connects to psychological well-being, the role of respect in those connections, and how practitioners like Rafael Achacoso illustrate best practices in this area. Why Pronouns Matter Pronouns are more than grammar. They’re a part of how people publicly express their gender identity, how they feel seen, respected, and affirmed. For many, being referred to by correct pronouns is essential to self-esteem, to being acknowledged as who they are. When someone’s pronouns are misused—whether accidentally or intentionally—it can cause feelings of invalidation, erasure, disrespect, and distress. Over time, repe...

Dating apps have transformed the way people connect. With just a few swipes, you can browse through countless profiles, start conversations, and explore potential relationships. While this digital landscape offers convenience and opportunity, it also comes with a hidden emotional toll. For many individuals, especially those prone to Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) , dating apps can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. The quick matches, sudden unmatches, unread messages, or ghosting incidents often strike deeper than intended. What might seem like a casual “no” to one person can feel like personal devastation to another. Let’s unpack how dating apps amplify rejection triggers, what RSD really means, and most importantly, the strategies you can use to cope effectively. Understanding Rejection in the Age of Dating Apps Traditional dating used to involve face-to-face interactions, introductions through friends, or meeting someone in a social setting. Rejection was still part of th...

Mental health care is meant to be a safe and supportive space, but for many LGBTQ+ individuals, the reality is very different. Despite advances in awareness and inclusivity, diagnostic bias remains a persistent problem that shapes how care is delivered—and too often, how it fails. Clinicians, even with the best intentions, may misinterpret symptoms, overlook root causes, or unconsciously apply outdated frameworks, leaving LGBTQ+ patients misdiagnosed or untreated. Understanding these biases and addressing them is essential for creating a mental health system that truly serves everyone. What Is Diagnostic Bias? Diagnostic bias happens when assumptions, stereotypes, or cultural blind spots influence a clinician’s judgment. In LGBTQ+ mental health care, these biases often show up in subtle but harmful ways: Misgendering or assumptions about sexuality : When a clinician assumes pronouns, sexual orientation, or relationship roles without asking, patients can feel dismissed before trea...