How can you use peer support to promote recovery-oriented language?

1 Avoid labels and diagnoses

People are more than their diagnoses or symptoms. Labels can be stigmatizing, limiting, and disempowering. Instead of using labels, use person-first or identity-first language, depending on your peer's preference. Person-first language emphasizes the person before the condition, such as "a person with schizophrenia" or "a person who hears voices". Identity-first language embraces the condition as part of the person's identity, such as "a schizophrenic person" or "a voice-hearer". Ask your peer how they want to be referred to and respect their choice.

2 Use positive and hopeful words

Recovery is a process of change and growth that is unique to each person. It is not a linear or fixed outcome. Therefore, avoid using words that imply finality, negativity, or judgment, such as "cure", "failure", "relapse", or "normal". Instead, use words that convey hope, possibility, and progress, such as "recovery", "wellness", "challenge", or "adjustment". For example, instead of saying "You have relapsed", you can say "You are facing a setback" or "You are experiencing a change in your recovery".

3 Respect choice and autonomy

People have the right to make their own decisions about their lives, including their treatment and recovery goals. Avoid using words that imply coercion, obligation, or pressure, such as "must", "should", "have to", or "need to". Instead, use words that express respect, collaboration, and empowerment, such as "can", "may", "want to", or "choose to". For example, instead of saying "You need to take your medication", you can say "You can decide whether to take your medication" or "You may want to consider taking your medication".