4 Details Not to Share

Names of medications. People should take mental health medications only under the supervision of a medical professional. Referencing specific meds can lead to self-medication risks.

Potentially harmful instructions. In sharing stories of past struggles with eating disorders, self-harm, or substance misuse, avoid details that could promote harmful behaviors.

Detailed accounts of self-harm or drug use. For individuals who have self-injured or misused substances, hearing detailed descriptions of those acts can contribute to their impulses.

Bad experiences with therapy or medication. Be thoughtful when sharing stories that may discourage people seeking support. Share how you found the best resources for yourself instead.

Watch Out for These Words

Don’t define people by mental health conditions. Say “living with bipolar disorder,” not “she’s bipolar” and “working through PTSD,” not “victim of PTSD.”

Avoid language that is shaming. Use “misusing substances,” not “she’s an addict”; “self-injuring,” not “he’s a cutter”; and “attempted suicide,” not “he tried to kill himself.”

Avoid using mental health terms for behaviors. Instead of “she’s schizo” for inconsistency or “he’s OCD” for organization, use descriptive terms to prevent misunderstanding.

Avoid language that has a history of being derogatory to people dealing with mental health issues. That includes: crazy, nuts, disturbed, mental, lunatic, looney, insane, psycho, and unhinged.

Get more examples and suggestions of alternative language to use in the Mental Health Media Guide. 

Don’t Oversimplify Causes

Attributing a mental health condition or emotional struggle to a single event or cause can spread misinformation. Here are a few tips to prevent oversimplifying causes.

Embrace complexity. Highlight the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles, acknowledging diverse factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences.

Avoid reductionism. Refrain from attributing mental health conditions solely to one cause or factor. Instead emphasize the interplay of various influences.

Humanize experiences. Share personal stories and narratives that depict the complexity and individuality of mental health journeys, fostering empathy and understanding among your audience.

How to Talk About Stigma

Avoid amplifying stigma. Refrain from showcasing hurtful comments or exaggerating negativity surrounding mental health issues.

Educate your audience. Provide accurate information about mental health conditions, treatment options, and recovery journeys to combat misconceptions and reduce stigma.

Avoid sensationalism. Refrain from sensationalizing or dramatizing mental health struggles in your content, since it can perpetuate stereotypes and misconceptions.

Encourage empathy for mental health challenges. Share authentic stories without judgment or sensationalism to foster understanding.

Use respectful language. Choose your words carefully to avoid reinforcing stigma. Use person-first language and avoid stigmatizing terms or labels when discussing mental health.