Language Matters

How the words we choose can impact others and our workplace mental health culture.

In mental health conversations across ATB, team members have shared important feedback we can all use to foster a more inclusive and psychologically safe and healthy culture. Many of us use terms without pausing to think about how language may impact those around us. Moving to more inclusive language isn’t easy, if you catch yourself, or others, inadvertently using any of these terms, work to redirect and change it for next time.

As we all strive to deepen our connections, reduce stress and add some humor to our days, there can sometimes be unintended consequences to the language we choose. Here are some real examples given to us by team members about scenarios that are being used more often and more casually in our comments and jokes:

• Crazy/Insane/Psycho - these words are never appropriate in professional and personal communication. Consider using worlds like challenging, frustrating, interesting, uncertain, overwhelming, etc.
• Alcohol/quarentini/winetime/ - our conversations and social media are filled with jokes about how to cope by drinking. Remember that many people with addictions could have less support and may be struggling. In times of stress, watch for healthy habits that turn into coping methods that can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Consider more inclusive and healthy language and ways to connect as a team such as team lunch or coffee breaks, informal connections, chat time. Limit, especially in large mixed groups, references to drinking to cope with stress. 
• Weight/COVID 19 Pounds - many people live with eating disorders and body issues. What may seem harmless and funny to some can be hurtful and triggering to others. It's acceptable to talk about the challenges of staying healthy and fit while at home; be mindful that we often aren't aware of the medical challenges others may be living with. 
• Stress - remember that leave is leave. There is no such thing as “stress leave”. If a team member is on a medically supported leave, we welcome them back when they are ready. Team members may be experiencing higher levels of stress and may need some time off. 
• Worries - If someone is worried or stressed because they can't see their hairdresser etc., accept that that is their reality even if you may be thinking about the global pandemic and economy. Neither is better or worse. Guide yourself and others to avoid generalizing i.e. ‘I am XYZ because of ZYX’ vs. ‘Everyone is’ or ‘We all should’.  
• Use ‘person first’ language - language that prioritizes someone’s identity and individuality above whatever other characteristic you might be describing (i.e., someone living with depression rather than they are depressed). This approach is consistent with delivering more person-centered care.

Even after reading, thinking and talking about why Language Matters you may still find yourself using these terms and that doesn't make you a bad person, it makes you human. Just do your best to notice your language habits, and ask those around you to do the same. 

Want to learn more?

Language Matters from the Mental Health Commission of Canada a short guide to host a workplace mental health conversation. 

Language Matters. Canadian Public Health Association 

Mental illnesses: Terms to use. Terms to avoid

Guidelines for inclusive language

Thank you to my ATB co-authors Kerilee Snatenchuk and Jessica Krieger.

Share your examples and feedback in the comments below #languagematters.