The Importance of Changing Language in Health Contexts: HIV and Beyond

The language we use in health contexts can have a profound impact on how people perceive their diagnosis, how it influences their self-esteem, and their willingness to live and follow treatments. Terms like "infectious diseases," "contagion," and similar can carry significant negative connotations, especially when it comes to HIV-positive diagnoses. For this reason, it is essential to adopt more assertive, empathetic, and positive language.

The Power of Words
Words are not just a means of communication; they also carry deep meanings that can influence people's emotions and perceptions. In the health field, the words we use can:

• Stigmatize: Terms like "contagion" or "infectious" can suggest danger and isolation, leading to stigmatization and discrimination.
• Generate Fear: Words with negative connotations can generate fear and anxiety, affecting people's mental and emotional health.
• Reduce Treatment Adherence: Negative language can discourage people from following their treatments or seeking medical help.

HIV and Language: A Critical Case
In the case of HIV, the use of inappropriate language can have particularly severe consequences. People who receive an HIV-positive diagnosis already face a considerable challenge in terms of acceptance and managing their new situation. Using terms like "infectious disease" or "contagion" can make these people feel dangerous to others, increasing isolation and stigma.

Strategies for Assertive and Empathetic Language

• Use Neutral and Precise Terms: Instead of "infectious diseases," it is preferable to use terms like "treatable health conditions."
• Avoid Dramatization: It is important not to dramatize the situation. Phrases like "living with HIV" are preferable to "suffering from HIV."
• Focus on Treatment and Management: Emphasizing that HIV is a manageable condition with appropriate treatment can give hope and motivation to people. For example, instead of saying "HIV is a deadly disease," one can say "HIV is a condition that, with appropriate treatment, allows for a full and healthy life."
• Empathy and Respect: Showing empathy and respect is key. Avoid using terms that may be perceived as judgmental or derogatory.
• Continuous Education: Continuously educating health professionals and the general public about the importance of language in managing health conditions can help change perceptions and attitudes.

Benefits of Positive Language

• Reduction of Stigma: More positive and empathetic language can help reduce the stigma associated with certain health conditions, such as HIV.
• Improvement in Mental Health: People feel better about themselves and are more likely to seek and follow treatments.
• Promotion of Inclusion: Inclusive and respectful language can foster an environment of support and understanding, both in communities and health settings.

Examples:

• NO: affected YES: diagnosed
• NO: contagious YES: transmissible
• NO: suffering from HIV YES: living with HIV
• NO: I am HIV-positive YES: HIV carrier (the word "I am" defines, and I am much more than that)

Conclusion
Changing the language we use in health contexts, especially in the case of HIV-positive diagnoses, is not just a matter of political correctness but a necessity to foster empathy, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life of people living with HIV. By adopting a more assertive, empathetic, and positive approach, we can significantly contribute to the emotional and physical well-being of these people, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate society.