By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO)
Language is a powerful tool, capable of shaping our perceptions, influencing our behaviours, and even defining our sense of self. When it comes to mental health, the words we use can carry significant weight, particularly when describing sensitive and complex issues like self harm.
The term ‘self-harmer’ is a prime example of how language can inadvertently perpetuate stigma and hinder recovery. While seemingly descriptive, this label can have unintended consequences, reducing individuals to their behaviour and creating a sense of permanence that can be both misleading and disempowering.
The Problem with Labels
Labels, by their very nature, categorise and define. While they can be helpful in some contexts, they can also be limiting, especially when applied to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. When we label someone a ‘self-harmer’, we risk:
- Reducing their identity: We define them solely by their behaviour, overlooking their complexities, strengths, and potential for growth.
- Creating a sense of permanence: We imply that self harm is an inherent part of their identity, rather than a coping mechanism that can be changed.
- Reinforcing stigma: We perpetuate the idea that self harm is a shameful or abnormal behaviour, further isolating individuals who are already struggling.
The Power of Person-First Language
Person-first language is a powerful tool for challenging stigma and promoting respect. It involves placing the person before the condition or behaviour, emphasising their humanity and individuality. Instead of saying ‘self-harmer’, we can say ‘person who self harms’. This subtle shift in language has significant implications:
- Emphasises the individual: It reminds us that the person is more than their behaviour, that they have a unique identity, strengths, and potential for recovery.
- Acknowledges the behaviour as temporary: It implies that self harm is a coping mechanism, not a defining characteristic, and that it can be overcome with support and intervention.
- Reduces stigma: It avoids labelling and judgement, promoting a more compassionate and understanding approach to self harm.
The Language of Hope and Change
Language can either create a sense of hopelessness or inspire hope for change. When we use person-first language, we communicate the belief that individuals can recover from self harm, that they can learn healthier coping mechanisms, and that they can live fulfilling lives. This language of hope is crucial for both individuals struggling with self harm and for those around them. It can encourage help-seeking, promote self-compassion, and foster a supportive environment where recovery is possible.
Challenging the Narrative
The language we use to describe self harm can also shape our understanding of the behaviour itself. By avoiding labels and using person-first language, we challenge the narrative that self harm is a permanent or defining characteristic. We recognise it as a coping mechanism, a way of dealing with overwhelming emotions or experiences. This understanding can help to reduce stigma and promote more compassionate responses to self harm. It can also empower individuals to seek help and to believe in their capacity for change.
Conclusion: Words Matter
The words we use matter. When it comes to self harm, choosing person-first language is not just a matter of political correctness; it’s about promoting respect, challenging stigma, and fostering a culture of hope and recovery. By recognising the power of language, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for those struggling with self harm and empower them to embark on a journey of healing and transformation.