The words we say

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The words we use matter. This page explains simple ways to respond with care, respect and hope when someone is struggling.
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The words we say

The words we use can shape how people feel about themselves, whether they seek support, and how safe they feel when talking about difficult experiences. Some words can help people feel respected, understood and hopeful. Other words, even when used with good intentions, can feel judgemental, dismissive or discourage someone from reaching out. 

Throughout the Yellow Bench Resource Hub, we use language that is respectful, person-centred and recovery-oriented. These words may sound unfamiliar at first, but the ideas behind them are simple. 

At their heart, they are about recognising people as individuals, focusing on strengths, respecting choice, and offering support in ways that promote safety, dignity and hope. 

This page explains some of the common terms you may see throughout the Resource Hub and what they mean in everyday language. 

What do these words mean?

Recovery-oriented

A recovery-oriented approach recognises that people can live meaningful and fulfilling lives, even when facing challenges. It focuses on hope, strengths, personal goals and supporting people to make choices that are right for them. 

Rather than:

“You’ll never get better.”

A recovery-oriented approach says: 

“Support is available, and things can improve.” 

Strengths-based

A strengths-based approach focuses on a person’s abilities, skills, experiences and supports, rather than only on their difficulties or challenges. 

Instead of asking:

“What’s wrong with this person?”

Ask:

“What strengths, resources and supports can help?”

Person-centred

A person-centred approach puts the person at the centre of decisions about their life, wellbeing and support. 

It recognises that people are experts in their own experiences and should be involved in decisions that affect them. 

Rather than:

“I know what’s best for you.”

A person-centred approach says:

“What would be helpful for you right now?”

Trauma-informed

A trauma-informed approach recognises that many people have experienced difficult or traumatic events and that these experiences can affect how they feel, think, behave and respond to situations. It focuses on safety, trust, choice, collaboration and respect. 

Rather than asking:

“What’s wrong with you?” or “Why are they acting like that?” 

A trauma-informed approach asks: 

“What may have happened to you?” or “I wonder what might be happening for this person?” 

Recovery practice

Recovery practice is the practical application of recovery-oriented principles. 

It involves listening, building on strengths, respecting choice, supporting connection, and helping people move towards what matters most to them. 

LEARN

Learn more about language and the words we say

Here are some additional resources about language and the words we say/use to support mental health and communicate with hope, respect and optimism.

Hope and optimism
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