A Positive Evolution: Language in Mental Health Care

Available with English captions and subtitles in Spanish.

A conversation with Christine Tebaldi, DNP, MPH, on the impact of person-focused language and how mental health professionals can support their patients.

Choosing Words That Put People First

Words matter in mental health care. Using the right language is about much more than clinical accuracy. Chosen skillfully, words can build trust, reduce stigma, and improve patient outcomes. Tebaldi explains why it’s important for health care professionals to learn to identify and replace potentially harmful language with clear, empathetic, and respectful communication.

Watch now to learn more about:

  • How to use person-first language
  • Why consistency is key to describing patient care
  • How to hold peers accountable for stigmatizing behavior

In this discussion, Tebaldi emphasizes the importance of respectful, trauma-informed language in mental health care.

“When we communicate with our patients and our colleagues, we’re intending to relay respect … we want people to feel like they are with us, engaging in a shared goal-setting process,” Tebaldi says. “The language matters, and the way we say it matters.”

At the heart of such respectful communication is person-first language. Tebaldi describes how such language avoids stigmatization. By putting the person first, as in “a person living with schizophrenia” instead of “a schizophrenic,” we’re reminded that no one is defined by their diagnosis. It’s a simple way to show respect and build trust from the start.

Tebaldi discusses strategies for addressing biases and stigma within the mental health field. She states it’s important for providers to be mindful of language everywhere, by using compassionate language in the presence of patients, when discussing cases in consultation, and when writing notes in a patient’s medical record.

“There used to be two different ways that we would communicate about patients or with patients: one when the patient was present and one when the patient was not—and things have changed,” she says.

Tebaldi encourages practical steps for holding peers accountable for stigmatizing language as well as how to draft patient notes that are both compassionate and accurate.

She emphasizes approaching every interaction with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to continual growth, knowing that clear, respectful communication strengthens relationships and drives better patient outcomes.

Every word we choose has the power to shape care, build trust, and affirm the person behind the diagnosis.

Audience Questions

  • Why do the words we use matter so much in mental health care?
  • How do negative attitudes and unfair treatment show up in the words we choose?
  • How has talking about the person first instead of their condition changed how we work?
  • How do you find out how patients want to be talked about, especially when they use hurtful words about themselves?
  • How can doctors be honest about mental health disorders while still being kind when they explain them?
  • What kinds of words or approaches help reduce shame around difficult diagnoses like borderline personality disorder?
  • Can you share examples of how good word choices made patients feel better?
  • How would you talk to a coworker who uses words that might hurt patients?
  • How do computer medical records affect whether we use helpful or hurtful language?
  • Is the mental health field getting better at using kind and fair language?
  • How do different cultures and places think about mental health words differently, and how should doctors handle this?
  • What works best to get experienced doctors to change the words they use?
  • What basic skills should new mental health workers learn to always speak kindly?
  • What should doctors do when they say something that hurts a patient’s feelings?
  • What books, websites, or classes can help people learn to speak better with patients?

The information discussed is intended to be educational and should not be used as a substitute for guidance provided by your health care provider. Please consult with your treatment team before making any changes to your care plan.

Resources

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About Dr. Tebaldi

Christine Tebaldi, DNP, MPH, is the chief nursing officer at McLean Hospital and vice president of nursing for Mass General Brigham Behavioral and Mental Health. As an active member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, she has served in several volunteer leadership roles, including as a board member at large. Dr. Tebaldi is recognized for her expertise on topics including patient-centered care and stigma reduction.

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