Did you know that the language we use to talk about mental health may contribute to the stigma, prejudice and discrimination of individuals who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition? We are all unique individuals and want to be treated as such. There is much more to each person than their mental health condition and, many times, in our field of work, we see patients at their worst. Person-first language refers to speaking and writing in a way that acknowledges the person first, and then their condition or disability. It indicates what the person HAS, rather than allowing the condition to define the person. When we recognize the person first, we acknowledge that individual has the power to overcome that condition and live a full life separate from the mental illness.
Language Matters. Below is a chart with some examples.
|
Don’t Say |
Instead Try |
|
“mentally disabled” or “mentally ill” |
The person has a “mental health condition” or “has a mental illness”. |
|
“committed suicide” |
“Died by suicide” |
|
“retarded” or “mentally retarded” |
The person has an “intellectual disability” |
|
“addict” “ junkie” or “drunk” |
The person has a “substance abuse disorder” |
|
“crazy, insane, psycho or nuts” |
Describing their symptoms. |
In addition to the table, remember to respect each individual’s preference on how they wish to refer to their own mental health status. CHCS continues working to increase the mental health awareness and services for our associates, patients and communities.
A number of mental health resources are available in northeast Kansas. Below is a list of contacts and the services they provide. Contact your primary care physician for guidance.
Below are references to not only our available services, but others in northeast Kansas.
Community HealthCare System
120 W 8th St.
Onaga, KS 66521
785-364-3205 Medication Management
785-889-4241 Counseling in Onaga
785-437-3734 Counseling in St. Marys
Medication management with Dr. Heredia in Holton.
Counseling Services with Cassie Gaddis, LSCSW in Onaga and St. Marys
Pawnee Mental Health
Counties served: Clay, Cloud, Geary, Jewell, Marshall, Mitchell, Pottawatomie, Republic, Riley, and Washington
Community Mental Health Center
510 E Hwy 24
Wamego, KS 66547
785-456-7408
24/7 Crisis Line: 1-800-609-2002
Additional offices in Clay Center, Concordia, Junction City, Mankato, Marysville, Beloit, Belleville, Manhattan, and Washington
Therapy services • Medication management • Case management • Attendant care • Parent support and education • School-based services • Substance treatment services
Kanza Mental Health
Counties served: Brown, Doniphan, Nemaha, and Jackson
Community Mental Health Center
909 2nd St.
Hiawatha, KS 66434
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