Language Awareness & Mental Health Stigma

Language awareness and mental health stigma refers to how the words we use to discuss mental health conditions can perpetuate negative stereotypes and contribute to societal stigma. This often prevents individuals from seeking help and impacts their overall well-being by making them feel judged or labeled based on their condition. Essentially, using respectful, person-first language is key to reducing mental health stigma and promoting understanding.?

*Key points about language and mental health stigma...

~Impact of negative language: Words like "crazy," "psycho," "insane," or describing someone as "depressed" when they are simply sad can reinforce negative stereotypes and contribute to stigma.?

~Person-first language: To combat stigma, it's crucial to use "person-first language," which prioritizes the individual before their condition, such as "a person with depression" instead of "a depressive".?

~Barrier to treatment: Stigmatizing language can deter individuals from seeking treatment for mental health conditions due to fear of being judged or labeled.?

~Media influence: The way the media portrays mental health conditions can significantly impact public perception and perpetuate stigma.?

~Importance of awareness: Educating yourself and others about the power of language in mental health is vital to promoting positive change.?

*Examples of stigmatizing language to avoid...

• "He's just being dramatic" when someone expresses genuine emotional distress.
• "She's bipolar" as a casual description of someone's mood swings.
• "That's so OCD" when referring to a minor habit.?

*How to use language that supports mental health...

~Focus on the person, not the condition: Say "a person living with anxiety" instead of "an anxious person".?

~Use neutral language: Avoid sensationalizing or exaggerating symptoms.?

~Be respectful and empathetic: Acknowledge the challenges someone might be facing.?

~Educate yourself: Learn accurate terminology and stay updated on mental health conditions.?

"The problem with the stigma around mental health is really about the stories that we tell ourselves as a society."-Matthew Quick

?????? Tiffany E. Gillis MA, B.S.