How We Talk About Mental Health
It Matters! Resources and Articles
Words have power. The language we use when discussing mental health can either break down barriers or reinforce harmful stigma. It can start supportive conversations – or be a door slammer. At the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), we work to reduce stigma – one way of doing that is through fostering conversations that are not only open and honest but also safe and empowering for everyone.
These resources explore evolving language, including person-centered terms, provide guidelines to support someone with their mental health, and provide guidelines for discussing self-harm and suicide online. There are current affairs articles and tips for journalists – or anyone who is publishing content on mental health.
Why Non-Stigmatizing Language Matters
Stigmatizing language can:
- Discourage individuals from seeking help.
- Perpetuate myths and misconceptions about mental health.
- Make people feel judged or isolated for their experiences.
- Promotes empathy and understanding.
- Creates a safe space for meaningful conversations.
- Encourages individuals to seek the support they need.
Guidelines
Mindset
Mindset is Canada’s only journalist-to-journalist guide on mental health reporting. It can also be used by anyone publishing content about mental health
#ChatSafe
#ChatSafe is a young person’s guide to communicating safely online about self-harm and suicide and includes tips.
Courses
Would you like to learn more?
Mental Health Support and Certification
Opening Minds, the social enterprise of the MHCC, offers Mental Health First Aid training to create an empathetic, supportive, and stigma-free environment and numerous workplace training programs.
Suicide Intervention and Life Promotion
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) programs are offered in communities across the country and online. Search for “ASIST training” to find a course in your area.
Roots of Hope is a community-based model that can be adapted to local contexts. It provides peer-led and supported programs and initiatives for suicide prevention and life promotion. Learn more about becoming part of the Roots of Hope community.
Stories
Language Matters
The words we choose provide a context for safe, supportive conversations that lead to better mental health. Stay up to date and start a great conversation.