Language Matters
Language is powerful - especially when talking about mental health, substance use, HIV, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Stigmatizing language perpetuates negative perceptions. The resources below offer helpful guidance for anyone.
- Addiction Language Guide - Shatter Proof
- General Principles for Reducing Bias - APA Style
- GLSEN Pronoun Guide
- A Guide to Gender Identity Terms - NPR
- A Guide to Talking about HIV - CDC
- Inclusive Language Guidelines - APA
- Overcoming Stigma Through Language: A Primer - Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
- Overdose Crisis Reporting Style Guide - Changing the Narrative
- Recommended Terminology for Substance Use Disorders in the Care of Children, Adolescents, Young Adults and Families - American Academy of Pediatrics
- Reporting on Addiction
- Reporting on Suicide
- Stigma Primer for Journalists (Canada)
- Style Guide: Reporting on Mental Health - SPRC
- Talking about Youth Probation, Diversion, and Restorative Justice: A Messaging Toolkit - Annie E. Casey Foundation
- Understanding Pronouns - LGBT Life Center
- Words Matter - The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (Canada)
- Words Matter: Preferred Language for Talking About Addiction - NIDA
