What term is used to refer to one person with a mental illness?

The term "person with a mental illness" is widely accepted and preferred in mental health discourse because it emphasizes the individual as a person first, rather than defining their entire identity by their mental health condition. This language aligns with the recovery-oriented approach that fosters dignity, respect, and a holistic view of individuals.

Using "person with a mental illness" promotes person-centered care, advocating for the recognition of the individual’s experiences, strengths, and potential beyond their diagnosis. This terminology helps dismantle stigma by acknowledging the person’s full humanity rather than reducing them to a label or a set of symptoms.

In contrast, phrases like "client in recovery" and "patient with psychiatric issues" can inadvertently imply a singular focus on illness or a therapeutic relationship that may not encompass the entirety of the individual's identity. Additionally, "individual with a mental condition" might be seen as overly clinical or less personable, lacking the warmth that recovery-oriented language seeks to convey.