Your Words Have Power: Language Tips When Talking About Mental Health
Let’s be real: the way we talk about mental health matters—a lot more than we think.
In a world where we’re becoming (thankfully!) more open about therapy, self-care, and emotional well-being, the words we choose when we talk about mental health can either create connection—or cause harm. Whether it’s a conversation with a co-worker, a check-in with a friend, or even how we speak to ourselves in our own heads, language has power. It shapes how we view struggles, healing, and each other.
So let’s talk about how we talk about mental health. Because if we want to foster safe, inclusive, and compassionate spaces—at work, at home, online—it starts with what we say.
1. Words Can Uplift or Stigmatize
You might not even realize it, but phrases like “she’s totally psycho” or “I’m so OCD about my inbox” can contribute to stigma. And I get it—it’s not always intentional. These phrases have snuck into our everyday language, but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
Why it matters: Misusing terms that relate to actual mental health conditions can invalidate people’s real experiences. It can also make them feel like they need to hide their struggles rather than seek support.
Try this instead:
Instead of “That meeting gave me PTSD,” try: “That meeting was super intense.”
Instead of “I’m so bipolar today,” try: “My mood’s been all over the place.”
Being more mindful doesn’t mean you have to walk on eggshells—it just means pausing and choosing empathy over ease.
2. Normalize, Don’t Minimize
When someone opens up about their mental health, it’s a big deal. So let’s not respond with stuff like “just think positive” or “it could be worse.” These responses usually come from a place of wanting to help, but they can make someone feel like their pain doesn’t matter.
A better approach:
Try phrases like:
“That sounds really tough—thanks for sharing it with me.”
“I’m here for you. Do you want to talk more about it?”
Sometimes, we just need to hold space. Not fix, not advise. Just… be there.
3. Watch Out for Toxic Positivity
I love a good affirmation, but not when it erases someone’s reality. Telling someone to “just smile” or “focus on gratitude” when they’re going through it? That’s not helpful—it’s invalidating.
Real talk: You can be positive and still acknowledge pain.
Try: “I know things are heavy right now. You don’t have to be ‘okay’ for me to be here.”
That’s real emotional support. That’s where healing starts.
4. Reframe How You Talk About Yourself, Too
We’re often our own harshest critics, right? Words like “lazy,” “crazy,” or “weak” can creep into our internal dialogue—especially on hard mental health days. But here's the truth: struggling doesn’t make you weak. Asking for help doesn’t make you broken.
Instead of: “I’m a mess today.”
Try: “I’m having a hard day, and that’s okay.”
It might feel awkward at first, but over time, self-compassion becomes a habit. And that inner kindness? It reflects outward, too.
5. Language Around Work + Burnout Needs a Glow-Up
Let’s not forget how we talk about mental health at work. In hustle culture, it’s almost trendy to say we’re “so stressed” or “running on fumes”—but burnout isn’t a badge of honor.
Try:
“I’m at capacity right now.”
“I need to take a mental health day to recharge.”
Using honest, respectful language in professional settings helps break the stigma and reminds others it’s okay to protect their energy, too.
6. Words That Empower Healing
Here’s a list of empowering words and phrases to sprinkle into your convos, texts, or even your IG captions:
“It’s okay not to be okay.”
“You’re not alone in this.”
“Healing isn’t linear.”
“You’re allowed to take up space.”
“Your story matters.”
These aren’t just feel-good phrases—they’re lifelines.
Talking about mental health isn’t just about what we say—it’s about how we say it. Our words can either build bridges or walls. By being more mindful, ditching harmful stereotypes, and embracing more compassionate language, we create space for healing—for ourselves and others.
Let’s unlearn the language of shame and lean into empathy instead.
Let’s choose words that uplift, support, and connect.
Let’s talk like we care. Because we do care.
So here’s your gentle nudge:
Take a pause this week. Listen to the words you use when talking about your own mental health—or someone else’s. Is there room to be softer, clearer, more kind? You don’t have to be perfect—just intentional.
Let’s be part of the shift toward more mindful mental health conversations. If this resonates with you, share it. Start a convo. And let’s rewrite the narrative—one word at a time.