Talking About Mental Health: Navigating Anxiety, Depression, And More

Here, you’ll find a guide to how mental health is discussed across different cultures, as well as how norms and perceptions are evolving as awareness and understanding of mental health increase globally.

Why language matters when talking about mental health 

When you’re talking about mental disorders, it can be important to use the right language. It is only in recent years that mental health has been discussed openly, and even now, stigma still exists. 

How words influence stigma, identity, and willingness to seek help

Mental health terms are often improperly applied to everyday issues. For example, a person who is meticulously neat may be labeled as “OCD”. A person who is upset may be called “psycho”, or someone who thinks differently may be dismissed as “schizo”. This type of labeling can not only minimize the seriousness of certain mental disorders but is disrespectful and belittling as well. When mental health conditions are treated with contempt, it can prevent people from seeking a mental health diagnosis. 

Why respectful language supports healthier conversations

Open conversations about mental health can be a healthy way to normalize mental health concerns and educate the public about symptoms to be aware of. When mental health is treated as a forbidden topic, individual health and even public health can suffer. 

How different languages and cultures frame mental health

Talking about mental health can be both challenging and extremely important. Speaking about mental health—and often about emotions in general—can be personal. Such conversations may feel uncomfortable, particularly if cultural stigma surrounds the topic of mental health. But discussing mental health can be life-changing and even lifesaving. With open discussions about mental health, we can learn more about symptoms, disorders, effective ways to treat them, and how to get help.

When there is no direct translation for mental health terms

If you are someone who interacts with people who speak a different language, either socially or through work, it can be a good idea to learn how to ask about a few common concerns about mental health. That way, if you notice any trouble, you have a point to start the conversation. Most people are more willing to speak to an adult whom they trust, such as a relative or close friend. Having the right language can help you to be a support for someone who may need help. 

Why is it helpful to know how different languages address mental health and mental illness?

Views of mental health and openness about discussing it vary from culture to culture. How mental health is discussed also varies by language and dialect. Awareness of cultural and language differences may help people with mental health concerns find a culturally sensitive treatment.

Good communication about mental health has a wealth of benefits, including:

• Helping those living with mental health disorders feel understood and supported
• Empowering those living with mental health concerns to seek help
• Providing helpful information to those trying to support loved ones and friends living with mental health disorders
• Breaking down treatment barriers for mental health concerns
• Addressing taboos and stigmas surrounding mental health
• Educating society about the realities and prevalence of mental health disorders and available treatments

Practical mental health tips for starting the conversation

There can be a number of reasons that it may be time to have a talk about mental health. If you notice concerning behavior in someone you care about, here are some tips for starting effective and open conversations about mental health concerns. 

Choose the right person and time

The first step is to find the right person and time. The person to start this conversation should be comfortable talking about feelings and be someone that the individual feels equally comfortable talking to. This may be a relative, close friend, or a romantic partner. 

Finding the right time to have a conversation can be just as important as finding the right person to have the conversation. The conversation should not be public (unless it is a planned intervention) or take place while the individual is angry, upset, or focused on other things. 

Open with simple language based on your own experiences

You can normalize sharing by starting with sharing your own experience. Don’t make it about yourself, but simply share a time where you may have struggled. Try to avoid saying things like “I know exactly how you feel” or “I totally understand”. 

How to listen without trying to fix everything

A common challenge when talking to someone about mental health can be a strong desire to “fix” their problems. Listen to what they have to say, and ask clarifying questions to get more information. Avoid giving advice or talking too much about what you think. Rather, tell them that you care about them and strive to understand what they are trying to tell you about themselves. 

What to say and what to avoid

When talking to someone about mental health, there are some common phrases that people use that can be unhelpful and quickly shut down the conversation. Some of the phrases to avoid include:

• It’s all in your mind
• You have a great life, what are you complaining about?
• You should just try…(getting out more, exercise, a supplement, etc.)
• There’s nothing really wrong with you
• Just snap out of it
• Life isn’t fair
• Don’t be so negative
• You don’t seem depressed/anxious/traumatized

Phrases that reduce stigma

Some things that you can say to reduce stigma and engage with empathy can include things like: 

• How can I help you right now? 
• I’m here for you
• That sounds like a lot to process. Do you want to talk about it? 
• How are you coping right now?
• I’m really sorry that you’re dealing with this right now. If you need anything from me, I’m here
• Are you looking for some perspective, or do you just want to vent?
• Do you think it would help to talk to a professional? I can help you find someone if you’re interested

Suicide and death language that is safer and more respectful

Suicide can be an incredibly touchy subject, and having the right language to talk about it can help. Neutral language is recommended when speaking of suicide. For example, rather than saying that  a person “committed suicide”, say “died by suicide”. Avoid saying that someone is “suicidal”, rather say “has experienced suicidal thoughts”. Instead of speaking of a “failed suicide attempt”, you can say that someone “survived a suicide attempt” or call it a “non-fatal suicide attempt”. 

When to seek professional support

You may be worried about a friend or family member who has been behaving differently, but how do you know when talking may not be enough? Let’s take a look at signs that it may be time to recommend professional help. 

Signs that it's time to book an appointment

If you notice that symptoms are severe, or that behavior changes are causing an inability to perform work/school duties, or are interfering with their relationships or daily life, it may be time to encourage someone to make an appointment with a licensed therapist or counselor. 

Who can help, and when a psychiatrist should be involved

What type of mental health services to recommend can depend upon the person and the situation. For example, someone who is struggling with substance dependence may be referred to a substance use counselor, or even an in-patient program. A person experiencing anxiety or depression may work with a therapist or be referred to a psychiatrist if they need medication management. 

If you or someone you know is in crisis

If you know someone who is in crisis, experiencing severe psychosis or suicidal ideation, it can be essential to seek help immediately. For suicidal ideation, you can text 988 to reach the suicide and crisis helpline. If the danger to self or others is immediate, then you can contact emergency services through 911 or get to the nearest emergency room. Some states also offer statewide crisis hotlines–you can check online to see if your state participates. 

Talking about mental health at school and with young people 

Talking to another young person about mental health at school or in daily life can be difficult for kids and teens, or even for a parent. Let’s take a look at some ways you can start the mental health conversation with young people. 

How to start with a text or written prompt

The first step for discussing mental health can be a text or written prompt. This can make it easier for a friend or family member to reach out, especially as texting can be a more common and comfortable way to open conversations at this age. You can start by texting something along the lines of “is everything okay?” or “I’m just checking in”. If you’ve noticed changes, you may add something like “I’ve noticed you seem tired/worried/sad lately, let me know if you want to vent”. You can let them know you care by adding “I’ve been thinking about you” or “let me know if you need anything, I’m here for you”. 

When to involve trusted adults

If you notice a friend has been behaving in unusual ways, there are some signs you can look for that it’s time to get a trusted adult involved. This can include things like:

• They seem to be avoiding others
• Big changes in their behavior, weight changes, or changes in appearance
• They talk about not wanting to be alive anymore
• They seem to have lost touch with reality
• They are using illegal substances 

Finding resources that match language needs

There are over 7,000 languages spoken in the world today. Vocabulary, dialect, and cultural norms can affect talking about mental health. Language can significantly impact “mental health literacy”—or the understanding of mental health and resources for treatment. Cultural differences, including language, can affect how people perceive mental health conditions. Being culturally sensitive can improve mental health outcomes. Awareness of how different languages and cultures address mental health may help compassionately improve quality mental healthcare services.

Interpretation, bilingual therapy, and culturally responsive care

When it comes to mental health services, it can be essential to offer culturally responsive care and interpretation services to individuals. Understanding what is available is a human right, and communication on a person’s level is key to understanding. 

Public resources and system support

Public resources that can help match people to the right public health services include: 

• Health and Human Services (HHS)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Talking about mental health in therapy

If you or a loved one lives with a mental health concern, please reach out for help. With online therapy services like those found at BetterHelp, you can connect with a culturally sensitive, licensed mental health professional who is a good fit for you. Compassionate support that considers your background and language needs is available with just a few clicks. Through an online platform like BetterHelp, you can find affordable mental health care from the convenience of your own home, or anywhere you have a reliable internet connection. 

Research shows that online therapy can be very effective. It may even be as effective as traditional in-person therapy, offering more convenient treatment for those who might not otherwise seek it. Through BetterHelp, you can find support to achieve better mental health.