Mental Health Language: Stigmatizing or Not?

Mental Health Language: Stigmatizing or Not?

Combatting mental health stigma starts with how we use words to discuss these topics. We must be aware of outdated language being used in the media and around us everyday as it is continuously evolving. Everyone can be a champion against stigma when advocating for the use of accurate and respectful language. So, as you communicate with others, be mindful of the impact of your language!

Person-First vs. Identity-First Language

When using language to discuss individuals who are living with or experiencing mental health challenges or illnesses, there are two approaches that can be used. Person-first language focuses on the individual while de-emphasizing the illness, disability, or condition. This language shows respect for the individual as a person rather than as “abnormal,” “dysfunctional,” or “disabled”.

Person-first language

An individual who lives with schizophrenia

A person with lived or living experience of substance use

On the other hand, identity-first language is rooted in the relationship between a personal-cultural identity and a disability. Individuals and groups who use it as part of their identity focus on their unique abilities rather than the disability.

Identity-first language

Autistic person

Deaf person

Knowing which language to use can be tricky but as a general rule, defaulting to person-first language is recommended as it is used by most individuals living with a mental health problem or illness and/or people with lived experience of substance abuse. When talking to a person with lived experience, listen for or ask them about the language they use.

Why Does My Language Matter?

Using words to accurately convey our thoughts is often done quickly and effortlessly. Unfortunately, our brains have been somewhat programmed to reach for words that have negative connotations or reinforce negative stereotypes, creating shame and acting as a barrier to seeking help. Using alternative language, we can still accurately convey our thoughts without the negativity. Using person-first language focuses on the individual rather than their illness or diagnosis which does not define who they are. Defining individuals by their identity rather than their illness maintains a degree of respect and dignity. You may have heard casual phrases such as “you’re crazy”, “what a psycho”, or “I’m so OCD.” These comments may seem harmless but they trivialize the real experiences that individuals living with mental health challenges go through, making it harder to feel understood and respected. The prevalence of this language over time can contribute to people internalizing negative beliefs about themselves, further discouraging them from seeking help or speaking openly about what they’re going through.

Language also plays a powerful role in shaping culture and social attitudes. The way we talk about these matters on social media, on campus, in the classroom, and with our friends and family can either challenge or reinforce stigma. When using appropriate, respectful, and accurate language, it shows that we can openly discuss mental health without judgement, setting the stage for further discussions. This all contributes to creating an environment where people can feel safer discussing their experiences and accessing supports without fear or hesitation. Many post-secondary students are navigating stress, identity, and major life transitions, making our language all the more important. Fostering a sense of belonging and community starts with using thoughtful language, while being careless can unintentionally exclude or harm. Being mindful of how we speak isn’t about policing every word, it’s about recognizing the impact our words can have on others and choosing them with care.

Where Can I Learn More About the Correct Language?

There are plenty of great resources offered all around, including on our campuses! Stop by your school’s disability access office or on-campus accessibility services centre for more information, or visit any of the wonderful online resources linked below:

- The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health: https://www.camh.ca/en/today-campaign/help-and-resources/words-matter

- The Canadian Mental Health Association: https://cmha.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CMHA-Words-can-hurt.pdf

- British Columbia Ministry of Education and Child Care: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/erase/documents/mental-health-wellness/mhsu-language-guide.pdf

- The Government of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/stigma-why-words-matter-fact-sheet.html

- The Mental Health Commission of Canada: https://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/wp-content/uploads/drupal/2020-08/language_matters_cheat_sheet_eng.pdf

Dunn, D. S., & Andrews, E. E. (2015). Person-first and identity-first language: Developing psychologists’ cultural competence using disability language. American Psychologist, 70(3), 255–264. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0038636

By: Matthew Schmidt