5. Use trauma-informed language that helps end mental health stigma
Trauma-informed language recognizes clients' intersectional identities and the experiences that inform their behaviours and thinking patterns.
Itās crucial to approach the causes of symptoms like negative emotions with compassion and empathy.
Itās also helpful to recognize the impact of adverse events and trauma on a clientās life before digging into potential behaviour changes.
Avoid descriptions and suggestions that judge patients for their symptoms.
Cautionary example
āAnxious people often exaggerate the likelihood of a negative event occurring.ā
Individuals seeking mental care may have experienced "unlikely" adverse events, sometimes frequently.
Write in a manner that validates the reasons/causes for negative thoughts, even if they might not be realistic anymore.
Suggested approach
Acknowledge that anxiety (or other behaviour) may reflect something profound in their lives. Connect with empathy, not judgment or generalizations.
Suggested approach
Consider a trigger warning for difficult or potentially traumatic content.