Language is part of our everyday life, it’s the way we speak and communicate with others, how we express our emotions, make decisions, and come together as a community. It reflects who we are as people, our identity, beliefs, values, and traditions. It allows us to feel like we belong.
The language that we use has such an important role for so many different reasons. It plays an integral part in documenting our culture and our history to make sure our experiences aren’t lost. It allows us to be able to communicate with others better, have more acceptance, a community, and show our support as an ally.
Being able to use language in a respectful and inclusive way matters, allowing us to engage in meaningful connections with the people around us. It’s about using terminology that makes people feel included, comfortable, and acknowledges peoples lived experiences. Language is a powerful tool that if used in the right way can make strides for change, improvement and overall better support and allyship.
Language within mental health;
The terminology and the way we use our language within mental health is so important. It can change the way people respond to the support and resources given to them and change the way people experience mental health services. Here are some ways to start using language differently;
Changing the terms we use; Within mental health, there is certain terminology that we sometimes use that stigmatizes mental health. For example, using ‘illnesses or ‘condition’ when referring to mental health. In replacement, we can use the term ‘mental health challenge’. It can help reduce the stigma and shame associated with mental health.
Using first person language; Putting the person before their diagnosis puts the individual at the forefront of our minds rather than the challenges they are going through. For example, ‘a person with anxiety’ rather than ‘an anxious person’. This allows us to treat the person as someone who is a person and gives them the respect that they deserve.
Inclusive language; There are some words within the mental health sector that have some problematic meanings behind them. For example, using the word ‘psycho’ when referring to someone with mental health challenges. Using these words can cause shame for those who get called these terms, so avoiding these words is important to create a safe space for people.
Language can have a devastating impact on how we act and respond to things. It’s the difference between whether people will reach out for the support they need and deserve. Language doesn’t just stop with mental health but also how we express ourselves, communicate with others and so much more.