Big Ideas
Mental ill-health and the power of words
May 6, 2025
Sandy Jeffs, an author and mental health advocate living with schizophrenia, joins Fay Jackson, General Manager at Flourish Australia, and Michelle Blanchard, CEO of VANISH. They discuss the powerful impact of language on mental health stigma. Sandy shares personal narratives about the evolving terms that can either heal or harm. Fay highlights the importance of culturally sensitive language, while Michelle explores the significance of reclaiming labels. Together, they advocate for compassionate communication to foster understanding and reduce discrimination.
53:28
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of language in mental health reflects societal attitudes, highlighting the importance of using empathetic terms to combat stigma.
- Distinguishing between stigma and discrimination is crucial for fostering accountability in mental health support systems and promoting systemic change.
Deep dives
The Power of Language in Mental Health
Language plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of mental health and can either uplift or undermine individuals recovering from mental illness. The discussion reveals how negative terms like 'crazy' or 'lunatic' can perpetuate stigma, making the journey back to normalcy challenging for those affected. Personal experiences shared by advocates highlight the discriminatory nature of such labels, which often reflect societal attitudes rather than the realities of mental health conditions. Ultimately, the misuse of language serves to other individuals, pushing them further from acceptance and complicating their recovery.
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