PDF | EPUB | Vol. 14, No. 1 (2018)
Words matter. They impact the assumptions we make about others, the way we understand someone else’s experiences, and the value we place on others. When it comes to mental health and substance use, there are many different kinds of words. We can easily think of words used to stereotype, label, or hurt people. Mental health as a system and mental health professionals in that system also use their own language. Words can be a way to emphasize power or prevent people from taking charge of their rights or their recovery. Labels like the name of a diagnosis can be confusing and hold stigma. While it’s easy to focus on the ways that words can harm, the right words can heal. Helpful language makes people feel heard, included, and supported. The right language helps us communicate clearly, respectfully, and with hope. In this issue of Visions, you’ll see the power of the right words.
Background
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Editor's Message
(Sarah Hamid-Balma) -
Minding Our Language: How word choice shapes rights, responsibilities and power in mental health law and care
(Iva W. Cheung) -
Why is the Language of Addiction So Tricky?
(Gaëlle Nicolussi Rossi and Dan Reist)
Experiences and Perspectives
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With the New Cannabis Laws, Is Everyone Now an “Addict”?
(Ashley) -
I’m Sorry, But What Did You Just Say? Two statements that probably shouldn’t be made
(Kelsey Pekarek) -
The Weight of Words: How my life was measured by language
(Jessica) -
Words That Heal and Harm: Making wise choices when we talk about mental health
(Suzanne Venuta) -
Bad Personality? Poor Character? Coming to terms with borderline personality disorder
(Marja Bergen) -
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: My greatest super power
(Leah John)
Alternatives and Approaches
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Paying Attention to the Language We Use: A mother’s perspective
(Colleen Clark) -
Language and Access to Mental Health Support: Challenging thoughts from a psychiatrist
(Chris Williams) -
Junkie, Addict or Person with a Substance Use Disorder? Language in journalism
(Andrea Woo) -
Media Coverage of Mental Illness
(Rob Whitley) -
What’s in a Name Change—A Temporary Relief from Stigma?
(Constantin Tranulis)
