Language
Matters
A Guide to Person-First, Stigma – Free Communication.
Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥ Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥ Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥ Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥ Stigmatized Language Creates Barriers That Prevent Care ♥
Words Create
Worlds
Speak with Intention
Words are never just words — they carry weight, history, and power. This guide helps you step into conversations with care, using language that respects the complexity of people’s lived experiences. Whether you’re speaking as a professional, a loved one, or a neighbor, your words can be a bridge to healing.
Say What You Mean, Without Harm
Every phrase we use reflects our values. “Language Matters” gives you tools to communicate without reinforcing stigma, shame, or stereotypes. Learn how simple changes in language can open doors, change perceptions, and stand against systems that silence or dehumanize.
Create Space for Respect
Changing the way we talk is part of creating a more just world. This isn’t about being politically correct — it’s about being human. Let this guide be your reminder that language can either uphold dignity or strip it away. Choose words that make room for growth, not judgment.
LANGUAGE
MATTERS
A guide to stigma-free, person-centered communication across systems of care and justice
Words shape how we understand people and the challenges they face. They can build bridges—or reinforce barriers. In conversations about substance use, mental health, housing instability, and legal involvement, language has the power to either stigmatize or affirm.
This resource was created for individuals, professionals, educators, and community members who want to communicate with respect, dignity, and care. Whether you’re writing case notes, having a family conversation, teaching students, or sharing on social media, the words you choose matter.
Below is a curated list of “Say This, Not That” examples to help shift the narrative. Each phrase encourages person-first, trauma-informed, and socially conscious communication, offering practical alternatives to harmful or outdated language. These suggestions are not about being “politically correct”—they’re about being accurate, compassionate, and aligned with equity and justice.
Say This
Not That
Why It Matters
Person who uses drugs substances
Drug Addict
Focuses on behavior, not identity
Person with a substance use disorder
Junkie
Shows respect for lived experience.
Person who engages in sex work
Prostitute
Shows respect for lived experience.
Incarcerated person
Prisoner
Person-first over criminal label.
Substance Use Episode
Relapse
Normalizes the cyclical nature of healing.
Bring Language Matters to Your Workplace or Event!
Looking to create a more compassionate, inclusive, and trauma-informed culture in your organization?
Save Our Families offers trainings, workshops, and presentations built around the Language Matters framework. Whether you’re in healthcare, education, harm reduction, social work, or community organizing, our sessions are tailored to your needs and rooted in real-world application.
What We Offer:
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Custom trainings on person-first, dignity-based language
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Workshops for staff, educators, clinicians, and students
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Hands-on activities, discussion guides, and reflection tools
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Cultural humility and equity-focused approaches to grief, substance use, and stigma
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Organizational consultation on policy, language, and public-facing materials
We don’t just talk about stigma—we help you change the conditions that allow it to thrive.
Book Us
Ready to bring Language Matters to your space?
Email us at info@saveour.family