Health care worker mental health: NIOSH offers tips for stigma-free communication

Washington — NIOSH is encouraging health care industry employers to craft mental health-related communications in a way that helps reduce the stigma around seeking support.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says health care workers face an increased risk of suicide as a result of difficult working conditions; long work hours; rotating and irregular shifts; emotionally difficult situations with patients and family members; risk of exposure to diseases; and other hazards including workplace violence, routine exposure to human suffering and death, and access to lethal means.

NIOSH adds: “The fear of judgment associated with talking about and seeking behavioral health care increases the risk of suicide.”

On its Tips For Stigma-Free Communication About Mental Health webpage, the agency says to:
Talk about mental health in a straightforward way: Acknowledge that mental health challenges are part of life, not unlike physical health issues. Discussing the topic in a direct manner builds a comfort level and makes it easier for workers to seek support.
Lead by example: Leaders should demonstrate non-stigmatizing behavior and language in their interactions and communications about mental health. They also can share their own struggles and stories to help normalize the topic.
Use respectful and person-first language: A good practice is choosing language that emphasizes the person and not the condition. For example, refer to “a person with schizophrenia” rather than “a schizophrenic.” But always confirm what terms or phrases people and groups prefer. Choose words that are neutral and respectful while avoiding labels and stereotypes.
Highlight personal stories: Invite workers to share their experiences with mental health or substance abuse challenges, as well as seeking care, but don’t pressure anyone to share stories.
Don’t reinforce the stigma: Even while trying to reduce a stigma, discussing its existence could lead employees to wonder if they should be concerned.