Mental Health & Language

Mental health conditions are incredibly common in the United States, with approximately

Despite this, stigma and misunderstanding continue to create barriers to care and support. 

Language plays a significant role in shaping societal attitudes toward mental health. Shifting language in the workplace to be more inclusive and accurate can lead to a more supportive and productive environment. Research shows that inclusive workplaces foster higher employee engagement, reduce stress and improve collaboration. 

A 2021 Deloitte report found that organizations with inclusive cultures were 2.6 times more likely to have engaged employees and 6 times more likely to be innovative. By using respectful mental health language, workplaces can create a culture of psychological safety, encouraging open conversations, reducing stigma and ultimately improving overall well-being and productivity.

What can I do? Consider removing overtly stigmatizing terms from your language, such as crazy, addict and hysterical, to promote understanding and support for those with mental health conditions.

In addition to stigmatizing terms many mental health diagnoses are often misused to describe everyday behaviors or emotions. This casual use can downplay the seriousness of these conditions and contribute to misunderstanding and delays in getting treatment.

• “I’m so OCD.”
  Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a serious condition characterized by intrusive, distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors that interfere with daily life. However, people often use OCD to describe a preference for cleanliness or organization (e.g., “I’m so OCD about my desk being tidy”). This minimizes the severity of OCD and reinforces misconceptions about the disorder. Instead, terms like particular, detail-oriented or organized can more accurately describe such tendencies.
• “That’s so bipolar.”
  Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings that can include depressive episodes and periods of mania or hypomania. When people use bipolar to describe minor mood shifts (e.g., “The weather is so bipolar today”), it trivializes the real and often debilitating challenges faced by those with the condition. More accurate alternatives include unpredictable, inconsistent or fluctuating.
• “I’m so ADHD.”
  Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control and executive functioning. People sometimes use ADHD to describe being momentarily distracted or forgetful (e.g., “I totally forgot my keys—I’m so ADHD”). This misuse overlooks the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and the impact it has on their daily lives. Using phrases like I’m feeling distracted or forgetful is more accurate.

Using accurate, respectful terms helps validate the experiences of those with mental health conditions and promotes a society where seeking help is encouraged rather than stigmatized.

If you're interested in learning more about how to shift language, recognize harmful stereotypes and develop skills to support those who are struggling, consider hosting a Mental Health First Aid course in-person or online. 

To learn more:
Suzanne L Pearlman, MA
National Trainer & Curricula Development
Ph: 505.577.5971
Email: suzannepearlman@gmail.com
Website: https://suzannepearlman.com 

American Psychiatric Association. "What is Mental Illness?" American Psychiatric Association, 2021. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-mental-illness.

Deloitte. (2021). The diversity and inclusion revolution: Eight powerful truths. Deloitte Insights. Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). "Mental Illness." National Institute of Mental Health, 2022. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness.