What's crazy about our language?
Julia Davies
Using language that is appropriate to mental health is more than just choosing the “right” words—it’s about creating a culture where people feel understood, respected, and safe. When we talk about mental health using clear, factual, and neutral language, we help reduce stigma and make it easier for people to seek support without fear of judgement.
Certain phrases have historically been used without much thought, but they can unintentionally reinforce negative ideas. For example, describing someone as “crazy” or saying a person “committed” suicide reflects outdated views and can imply blame or wrongdoing. Similarly, referring to an individual as “suffering from” a condition can suggest that their identity is defined by distress, even when they may be managing their mental health in a stable or empowered way. Using respectful alternatives helps shift the focus to the person, not the condition. Phrases like “a person living with bipolar disorder” or “a person who died by suicide” are more accurate and compassionate without being emotional or sensational.
Language also plays a powerful role in how we think about ourselves. When we use neutral, person-centred terms, we help normalise mental health experiences as part of human life. This encourages more open conversations and reduces the sense of isolation many people feel. It also helps professionals, friends, and communities communicate more effectively and respond with understanding.
Most importantly, thoughtful language can make a real difference in someone’s willingness to reach out. When people hear others speaking in a respectful and informed way, it sends the message that their experiences are valid and that seeking help is welcomed—not judged.
By choosing accurate, non-emotive words, we contribute to a healthier, more inclusive environment where mental health is treated with the same care and clarity as physical health. It’s a small change with a meaningful impact.
Certain phrases have historically been used without much thought, but they can unintentionally reinforce negative ideas. For example, describing someone as “crazy” or saying a person “committed” suicide reflects outdated views and can imply blame or wrongdoing. Similarly, referring to an individual as “suffering from” a condition can suggest that their identity is defined by distress, even when they may be managing their mental health in a stable or empowered way. Using respectful alternatives helps shift the focus to the person, not the condition. Phrases like “a person living with bipolar disorder” or “a person who died by suicide” are more accurate and compassionate without being emotional or sensational.
Language also plays a powerful role in how we think about ourselves. When we use neutral, person-centred terms, we help normalise mental health experiences as part of human life. This encourages more open conversations and reduces the sense of isolation many people feel. It also helps professionals, friends, and communities communicate more effectively and respond with understanding.
Most importantly, thoughtful language can make a real difference in someone’s willingness to reach out. When people hear others speaking in a respectful and informed way, it sends the message that their experiences are valid and that seeking help is welcomed—not judged.
By choosing accurate, non-emotive words, we contribute to a healthier, more inclusive environment where mental health is treated with the same care and clarity as physical health. It’s a small change with a meaningful impact.