Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the U.S. since 1949. Every year during the month of May, there is a national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Individuals, agencies, institutions, and organizations work together, we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support the millions of people in the U.S. affected by mental illness. As a part of that movement each week I will provide a different topic to help raise awareness, provide support, educate and reduce stigma. Tonight’s focus is on how respectful dialogue can reduce mental health stigma. Language matters in mental health. Words we use shape how we see the world–and ourselves. We have a choice in the words we use to describe ourselves, others, and the world around us. The words we choose and the meanings we attach to them influence our decisions, beliefs, and well-being. Language is complicated and always changing. Whether a term is acceptable or not depends on your audience, whose experience you are trying to capture, and a person’s own preference.

We better promote mental health when we show respect for people from different cultures, backgrounds, or life experiences. When we practice inclusion, we improve our communication. Effective communication starts with respect.

Once you develop a greater awareness, knowledge, and skills about the culture of mental health, you may be surprised at how often hurtful language and labels are used in everyday conversation. • How do we respectfully talk to someone about mental health conditions? • Do we use person-first or identity-first language? • What are the cultural impacts of the words we choose? You can start by talking with others about the words they prefer. Affirming the preferences of the person you are referring to is always going to be the best way to go. Words matter, after listening, you'll be able to hold stigma-free mental health conversations. Stay tuned to learn tips on how to reduce mental health stigma through word choice.