Episode 25: Intentional Words in Mental Health Advocacy

In this episode, I sit down with D’Shonda Brown, a storyteller, TEDx speaker, journalist, corporate communications leader, and mental health advocate. We discuss the intentional use of language in mental health advocacy.As a survivor, D’Shonda shares how storytelling became a method of healing for her as well as a vehicle for change. She reflects when she publicly shared her experience as a survivor of sexual assault and the overwhelming response from others who felt seen by her vulnerability.We discuss how the words we choose can heavily influence perceptions and emotions, and either reinforce or challenge stigma. D’Shonda discusses the responsibility that comes with communication and how language that was once normalized can affect the way people see themselves and others. Intentional word choice matters.