Words Matter, People Matter

I was chatting with a friend who said, “every word should be a gift”. That resonated so with me. We were far beyond that portion of the conversation when I said, "Wait," and repeated it.

As we navigate the second half of Mental Health Awareness month, let's be mindful that words matter and people matter, too. Make a conscious effort to let every word you speak be a gift—a gift to uplift, a gift to inspire, a gift to encourage.

In the next few paragraphs, my lifelong friend and registered nurse of 20+ years, Pilar Gaudin, BSN, RN, Owner of Navi Nursing Services (who co-authored this post), provides us with practical, accessible tools to use as we show kindness to all humankind. She explains the value and benefit of why our words matter, especially to those suffering with mental health illness.

Cambridge Dictionary defines kindness as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. It is a great interpersonal skill. Kindness also involves speaking words of encouragement, empathy, and validation.

Science has shown that kindness is good for the body as well as the mind. It increases self esteem, decreases cortisol levels (the body's stress hormone), and makes positive changes in the brain, releasing hormones contributing to your mood and overall well being. According to psychiatrist at Cedars-Sinai, the caveat is, acts of kindness must be repeated, becoming a practice!

Kindness becomes a practice by incorporating simple acts in your daily/weekly routine. First, be kind to yourself by doing something you enjoy—relax in a bubble bath, dedicate time to write in your journal, or take a fun exercise class. Then, extend this kindness to others—greet someone with a smile, volunteer at an animal shelter, or assist an elderly neighbor.  

During Mental Health Awareness month, be intentional by using kind words, for words have power. They reinforce labels and stereotypes, uplift moods, or become the cornerstone of building healthy self esteem. 

Words associated with mental health issues cause unintended harm. Taylor Preston, MD, Director of Ambulatory Psychiatry at UAB Medicine, says, “the words we choose can reverberate in a variety of unintended ways. ‘Crazy’ stigmatizes individuals with mental illness,” he says. “It can make them feel ‘less than’ or like it is a personal failing to seek treatment for mental health care.”

A simple change in language goes a long way. For example, instead of saying, Ty, you’re such a wacko, consider, Ty, I noticed a change in your routine/behavior.

Kindness insinuates selfless action toward others. As we navigate the difficulties of this pandemic and the psychological issues that may arise, remember, simple acts of kindness, a repeated action, makes a significant difference in each of our lives.