Illinois State Medical Society invites you to their event

Words Matter – Promoting Mental Health through the Use of First-Person Language

About this event

Many Americans experience poor mental health at some point in their lives, including mild depression, anxiety, serious mental illness or substance use disorders. Yet many people are reluctant to seek support or treatment because of the perceived stigma attached to “mental illness.”

Using person centered language promotes understanding and compassion, without of evoking the habitual stereotypical or stigmatized responses mental illness can create. Adopting language that supports rather than isolates people who could benefit from mental health services is critical to changing the conversation about mental health.

Join ISMS for a session with Rebecca Ogrodny for a discussion about the importance of language in shaping the trajectory of mental health, specifically the use of patient-centered or person-first language when working with individuals to address mental health concerns.

About the presenter

Rebecca Ogrodny is an energetic, empowering, and solution focused educator who is passionate about equipping people with the knowledge and skills they need to enhance their overall health and wellness. She is the Founder of Empower Mental Health, which was created to increase mental health literacy while eliminating stigma and empowering individuals to care for their mental health.

Who can attend

Registration is limited to ISMS members and their employed staff. All others must pay $150 to attend. To pay, please email hpresearch@isms.org for instructions.

Learning objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, learners will be able to:

  • Describe why and how language choices can impact patient outcomes
  • Recognize the difference between person-centered language and illness-centered language
  • Describe strategies to promote first person language in your workplace (office, clinic)

Accreditation

The Illinois State Medical Society is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Credit designation

The Illinois State Medical Society designates this live activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ . Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Disclosure

There are no relevant financial relationships with ACCME-defined commercial interests for anyone who was in control of the content of this activity.