Noncompos mentis, or the term used to describe someone who is mentally incompetent, is a strong label that can feel insensitive and stigmatizing. There are alternative words and phrases that can be used instead of noncompos mentis that are less harsh and more considerate. Among these are "mentally challenged," "cognitively impaired," "mentally disabled," and "intellectually disabled." These words make it clear that the individual in question has a condition that affects their mental or cognitive abilities, without being dehumanizing. It is important to use appropriate language to communicate with empathy and understanding towards those with mental disabilities.