11. Do not use language that perpetuates negative stereotypes about psychiatric disabilities.
Much work needs to be done to break down stigma around psychiatric disabilities. The American Psychiatric Association has new guidelines for communicating responsibly about mental health.
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Use |
Don’t Use |
|---|---|
|
He has a diagnosis of bipolar disorder; he is living with bipolar disorder |
He is (a) bipolar; he is (a) manic-depressive |
|
Attempted suicide |
Unsuccessful suicide |
|
Died by suicide |
Committed suicide |
|
Is receiving mental health services |
Mental Health patient/case |
|
Person with schizophrenia |
Schizophrenic, schizo |
|
Person with substance use disorder; person experiencing alcohol/drug problem |
Addict, abuser; junkie |
|
She has a mental health condition or psychiatric disability |
She is mentally ill/emotionally disturbed/ insane |
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