Power of Language
“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug.” - Mark Twain
Have you ever considered how powerful the language you choose is? Have you considered how stigma reflects the attitudes and beliefs that can lead to judgement and discrimination?
The use of stigmatising language can be a way of distancing ourselves from things we don’t understand – or don’t want to understand. Stigma is a common and complex problem for people who live with mental health conditions and/or substance use problems. The power of words plays a significant role in shaping perceptions and attitudes, especially when it comes to topics like mental health and drug use.
Words have the power to either perpetuate or challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and drug use. Stigmatising language can reinforce negative stereotypes and discourage individuals from seeking help or support. On the other hand, using respectful and non-judgmental language can foster understanding and empathy.
Mental Health Stigma:
Despite the improvements we've seen over the last ten years, many people in our community still treat mental illness as something bad, taboo, or not ‘real’. How we talk about mental health, both in the media and in our daily lives, can change this. We can help break down stigma by not reinforcing it with the words we choose. Sometimes, the way we talk about mental illness can make some people feel left out or sensationalist about the issue. This can lead to unfair treatment.
Using derogatory terms or labels like "crazy" or "psycho" can contribute to the stigmatisation of individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
Below is a list from Everymind on the preferred terms when talking about mental illness in both a community, workplace and clinical setting.
Reference:
Everymind.. Language and Stigma. Retrieved from https://everymind.org.au/understanding-mental-health/mental-health/language-and-stigma
Drug Use Stigma:
Labelling individuals as "addicts" or "junkies" can further isolate those struggling with substance use issues.
Opting for more neutral language like "someone with a substance use disorder" can encourage a more compassionate approach to addressing drug-related issues.
There is power in language. By focusing on people rather than their use of alcohol and other drugs and by choosing welcoming and inclusive words, professionals working with people who use alcohol and other drugs can reduce the impact of stigma.
Stigma in language and actions can make people who use or have used alcohol and other drugs feel unwelcome and unsafe. This can stop people from seeking the services they need, negatively impacting their health, wellbeing, employment and social outcomes.
We can try and reframe our language and the way we speak of others using person-first language, which is:
· Respectful of individuals and the diversity of our experiences
· Positive/Strengths-based
· Descriptive
Drug use and mental illness can effect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or cultural background. Or even the suburb you live in, school you went to, status in society or money you earn. We can all be impacted.
““a drug user isn’t just a junkie in an alleyway with a needle sticking out their arm””
I find the above quote so incredibly powerful, we can work, live with or have family members impacted by substance use problems but our stigmatising beliefs may limit their help-seeking behaviour. No one starts using drugs to have a bad time!
The Australian Drug Foundation published a guide in 2020 called The Power of Words which looks at a traffic light system of language—for example, replacing stigmatising or negative terms such as junkie/druggie/drug abuser with preferred neutral terms a person who uses drugs/alcohol.
Talking about Suicide
Addressing suicide with sensitivity is paramount to fostering understanding and support.
It's crucial to avoid phrases that can perpetuate stigma or minimise the complexities of mental health struggles.
Refrain from saying someone "committed suicide," as it carries a historical, criminal connotation. Instead, opt for "died by suicide" to reduce stigma. Avoid phrases like "successful" or "failed" when discussing suicide attempts, as they oversimplify a person's struggle.
Opt for neutral terms like "survived an attempt" to acknowledge the ongoing challenges individuals face. Employ empathy and avoid judgment, steering clear of dismissive remarks such as "it's just attention-seeking." Instead, offer support by actively listening and expressing genuine concern. Language has the power to shape perceptions and attitudes, so let's use it responsibly to contribute to a culture of compassion and understanding around mental health challenges.
Language has the power to shape perceptions and attitudes. By choosing our words carefully, we contribute to a culture that values mental health, encourages open conversations, and ultimately plays a role in saving lives.
Let's be mindful of our language and work together to create a world where everyone feels heard, understood, and supported.