02/20/2026
📣 Mental illness stigma: small changes lead to big changes!
❗️ Did you know that stigma surrounding mental illness prevents 40% of individuals experiencing depression and anxiety from getting the supports they need?
❓So, how do we stop this percentage from increasing, and how do we all play a part?
📣 The way we talk about mental illness matters. Being mindful while talking about mental illness is an important aid in slowing the stigma.
Ask yourself- when you speak about mental illness, or an individual who is experiencing mental illness, where do you place the words: mental illness, depression, anxiety, or addictions?
Person-First language is impactful. We need to remember that people are not their mental illness, rather, they are people who are living with mental illness.
🌟 When we put the person first, we are focusing on who they are, their journey, and most importantly, the way we can best support them! Check out the chart on the last slide, and see how you can change your language to be person-first oriented!