A shift in language: How healthcare is tackling stigma

The words we use matter—especially in healthcare. Language shapes perceptions, influences behavior, and can either reinforce or reduce stigma. Across the healthcare industry, there’s a growing movement to use more inclusive, person-first language that respects individuals and supports better outcomes. Here’s how that shift is making a difference.

Healthcare language is evolving. Today, there’s a growing emphasis on describing the disease state rather than labeling the individual. Terms like “schizophrenic,” “alcoholic,” and “morbidly obese” are becoming less common. In their place, we’re seeing more person-first language—such as “a person with schizophrenia,” “a person with alcohol use disorder,” and “someone at an unhealthy weight.” This shift is particularly noticeable in conversations around mental health and substance use.

The change is intentional. It aims to reduce blame placed on patients, eliminate negative connotations, and make healthcare communication more inclusive. Research shows that using respectful, person-centered language can reduce stigma and bias from healthcare providers—and even influence how patients engage with care.

Studies have found that stigmatizing language appears more often in the medical records of non-Hispanic Black patients, individuals with public insurance, and those with certain comorbidities. This can directly impact the quality of care these patients receive.

Here are a few examples of how language in healthcare is shifting:

Using non-stigmatizing language helps create a more empathetic and supportive healthcare environment. Stigma can be a significant barrier to care, discouraging people from seeking help or fully engaging in treatment. Inclusive, respectful language not only promotes dignity—it encourages patients to take a more active role in their health and well-being.

Further reading

• Understanding the disparities: Why Black Americans suffer from higher rates of diabetes
• Women and autoimmune diseases: Understanding causes, trends, and treatments
• Women and migraines: Understanding the impact, triggers, and treatment
• Pharmacy deserts: A growing problem in the U.S.

References

• Tips For Sigma-Free Communication About Mental Health. CDC. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. August 5, 2024.
• Healy, Megan, Richard, Alison, and Kidia, Khameer. How to Reduce Stigma and Bias in Clinical Communication: a Narrative Review. Journal of General Internal Medicine. May 2022.
• Kung, Alina. Words Have Power: Strategies to Reduce Stigmatizing Language in Palliative Care Documentation. Center to Advance Palliative Care. January 15, 2025.
• Brooks, Katherine C., Raffel, Katie E., Chia, David, et al. Stigmatizing Language, Patient Demographics, and Errors in the Diagnostic Process. JAMA Internal Medicine. 2024.
• Fuller, Kristen. Stigmatizing Language in Mental Health and Addiction. Psychology Today. January 18, 2022.
• When & Why Detox is Important. American Addiction Centers. July 31, 2024.

Learn more

Want to learn more about how we help create pharmacy value and improve patient outcomes? Contact us by filling out the form below.