Language matters: Do you know how to talk mental health in an inclusive and respectful manner?

Source : ICRC

"It's children who are the most vulnerable. That's why aside of food and water, we also offer them psychological support." Banu, an ICRC psychologist, talks to mothers and children who had to flee the international armed conflict in Russia and Ukraine.

We all have the power to make the world a little better, every day. Sometimes, it is as simple and careful as choosing how we talk about things. In this instance, it is about mental health.

Why we need to talk about mental health

According to studies conducted by the World Health Organisation, more than 1 in 5 people in conflict-affected communities are living with mental health conditions, ranging from mild depression to more intense problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

These figures are alarming on many levels as the statistic is three times more than the general population worldwide suffering from these conditions.
Which is why using appropriate language, when talking about mental health, is not an exercise in linguistic agility or political correctness but fundamental respect for the integrity and dignity of people, according to the experts.

Words are crucial to eliminating negative stereotypes attached to mental illness and their consequences now and in the future.

Living well, based on individual needs: Why cash assistance is a crucial tool to help people in need

What is Economic Security?
The ICRC defines economic security (Ecosec) as the ability of individuals, households or communities to cover their essential needs sustainably and with dignity.
What does EcoSec do?
We provide people with emergency relief and support their long-term economic recovery through cash and vouchers. Fast, flexible and safe, this kind of support can help people weather a crisis and rebuild their livelihoods, and keep the local economy going. Through economic security programmes such as these, we bring victims of armed conflict and other violence rapid and flexible assistance to meet their essential needs and cover unavoidable expenses in ways that are sustainable and respect their dignity.

One question we keep being asked about our assistance activities is: Why do we give cash to people in need?

In a situation affected by conflict, cash can be the lifeline which makes the difference between life and death. Let’s find out why.

Work with the ICRC

Register to our General Career Webinar on 16th November 2022 at 5 pm CEST, to ask all your burning questions about job opportunities!