The words we use with our struggling loved ones matter more than you think. Shame, stigma and low self-worth play a big part in slow or no recovery.
If they feel defeated or hopeless, recovery feels unattainable. If we want to help our loved ones recover, let’s change our words an improve our understanding to avoid stigmatizing language…our words matter.
Words can build bridges and hope. Words can also build hopelessness and walls.
“Addict” vs “Someone that uses substances”.
“Drug addict vs “Someone that struggles with substance use”.
“Troubled vs “Struggling”.
“Failure to launch” vs “Struggling to launch”.
“Enabling vs “Supporting”.
“Manipulative vs “Feeling out of control”.
“Liar vs “Under the control of the disease of addiction or mental health”.
“Irrational vs “Under the control of the disease of addiction or mental health”.
“Should know better” vs “”Under the control of the disease of addiction or mental health.
“Denial vs “Will do anything to not confront”.
“Drunk vs “Person who misuses alcohol”.
“Patient vs “person in recovery”.
“Rehab vs “Treatment”.
The conversation can be different. Conversations and connections help heal.
If any of these behaviors are greatly affecting your young loved one and/or your family, there are options for help. Contact us here for a complimentary discovery call.
©Therapeutic Educational Consulting
