From Stigma to Understanding: Empathetic Language and Narrative in Mental Health Communication

Estimated Reading Time: 3 Minutes

 

Introduction

 

In our daily conversations, we often use language that inadvertently perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health. Phrases like ‘crazy’, ‘psycho’, or casually labelling someone as ‘schizophrenic’ or ‘OCD’ for minor habits not only oversimplify complex conditions but also contribute to a culture of misunderstanding and discrimination. It's high time we rethink our vocabulary in discussing mental health and adopt language that encourages empathy and understanding.

 

Power of Words and Labels

 

Words hold immense power. They shape perceptions, influence attitudes, and can deeply impact individuals' sense of self-worth. When we toss around terms like ‘crazy’ or ‘psycho’ to describe erratic behaviour or emotional outbursts, we trivialize the experiences of those grappling with genuine mental health challenges. Such language reinforces harmful stereotypes, suggesting that mental illness is synonymous with unpredictability or danger.

 

Moreover, using diagnostic labels as adjectives further marginalizes individuals living with these conditions. Saying someone is ‘schizophrenic’ because they seem detached from reality or ‘OCD’ because they prefer neatness overlooks the nuanced complexities of these disorders. It reduces people to their diagnoses, overshadowing their multifaceted identities and unique experiences.

 

Trivialising Experiences of Those Living with These Conditions

 

Consider the impact of describing someone as ‘OCD’ simply because they like things orderly. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a debilitating condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours that significantly disrupt daily life. By equating cleanliness or organization with OCD, we minimize the distress and suffering endured by those diagnosed with the disorder. This not only undermines their struggles but also perpetuates misconceptions about the nature of OCD.

 

Similarly, labelling someone as ‘schizophrenic’ for displaying eccentric behaviour overlooks the complexities of schizophrenia, a severe mental illness characterized by distorted thinking, hallucinations, and impaired perception of reality. Such casual usage not only perpetuates fear and misunderstanding but also undermines efforts to promote acceptance and support for individuals living with schizophrenia.

 

Rethinking our Mental Health Vocabulary

 

It's crucial to recognize that our choice of language reflects and reinforces societal attitudes towards mental health. We can create a more inclusive and compassionate society by adopting more respectful and accurate terminology.

 

1. Use person-first language: Instead of saying ‘schizophrenic person’, opt for ‘person with schizophrenia’. This emphasizes the individual's humanity rather than reducing them to their diagnosis.

2. Avoid derogatory terms: Refrain from using words like ‘crazy’, ‘psycho’, or ‘insane’ in casual conversation. These terms carry negative connotations and contribute to stigma.

3. Be mindful of diagnostic labels: Reserve diagnostic terms for clinical contexts and avoid using them as adjectives to describe behaviour or personality traits.

4. Educate yourself and others: Take the time to learn about different mental health conditions and how they impact individuals. Sensitivize by sharing your knowledge with others to promote understanding and empathy.

5. Listen and validate experiences: When someone shares their struggles with mental health, listen without judgment and offer support. Validate their experiences and avoid dismissing them with dismissive language.

 

Say THIS instead of THAT

 

1. Instead of using terms like ‘crazy’ or ‘insane’, opt for phrases such as ‘experiencing mental health challenges’ or ‘living with a mental illness’.

2. Refrain from using ‘sufferer’ or ‘victim’ and instead acknowledge individuals' autonomy by using ‘person affected by’ or ‘person living with’ a mental health condition.

3. Avoid labelling individuals as ‘weak’ or ‘crazy person’. Instead, recognize their resilience and complexity by referring to them as ‘individuals facing challenges’ or ‘people with unique experiences’.

4. Replace the stigmatizing phrase ‘committed suicide’ with more compassionate alternatives like ‘died by suicide’ or ‘took their own life’.

5. Steer clear of terms like ‘addict’ or ‘junkie’ and instead use language that respects individuals' humanity, such as ‘person with a substance use disorder’ or ‘individual in recovery’.

 

Conclusion

 

Changing the way we talk about mental health isn't just about being politically correct; it's about showing basic human decency. It's about recognizing that our words hold the power to uplift or harm and choosing to use them in a way that promotes empathy and understanding.

 

Language shapes our perceptions and attitudes towards mental health. By choosing our words thoughtfully and compassionately, we can contribute to a culture of acceptance and understanding. Let's strive to create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, regardless of their mental health status.

 

About the Author: Sukhmani Bhatia (She/her) is a Consultant Psychotherapist at The Mind Garden. Holding a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology from Jamia Millia Islamia and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, English Literature, and Economics from Mount Carmel College, Sukhmani advocates for affordable mental health care without compromising quality, empowering individuals to prioritize their well-being and thrive.