"Watch your language. Avoid using language or making comments that stigmatize people with mental illness or addiction.
Ask questions. So much can be learned by asking questions of a mental health professional like a therapist, social worker or school counselor. If you have a friend with a mental illness, ask them what language they prefer to use and how you can best support them in their experience. Each person's experience is unique.
Educate yourself. Resources are available online and in libraries to help educate you on mental
illnesses and addiction. When you know more about mental health conditions and addiction, you can educate yourself and others and behave differently yourself. For more information about mental health and addiction, visit:
• account.allinahealth.org/servicelines/826
• nami.org
• nimh.nih.gov
• samhsa.gov
• facesofrecovery.org
Speak out. If you have personal experience with mental illness or addiction, consider
sharing your story with others. Help reduce stigma by speaking out when
others stigmatize people with mental illness or addiction or spread
misconceptions."
