We know that language matters when it comes to how we describe our lived, living and carer experiences of mental health, suicide, distress, and alcohol or other drug use.

It is important to all of us at the Murrumbidgee Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Alliance that the language we use reflects and honours the words you choose to name your experiences.

Listening to your preferences

If you identify as having a lived/living or carer experience of mental health concerns, alcohol or other drug use, we invite you to tell us what your preferred terms are in the polls and activities below.

What our community choose as the preferred term will be used in future communications and documents of the Murrumbidgee MHDA Alliance.

Language can be a very personal choice and we know not everyone may agree on what words feel right. Where there are differences of opinion in what our community tells us they prefer, the Lived/Living Experience and Carer members of the Alliance will make the final decision, with respect for the various ways that we may all choose to identify.

Organisations often use specific terms to describe the people who are using their services. We know these do not always align with how people want to be described. Select your choice of preferred term and then click 'submit.' Refresh the page to see the poll results from others.
How do you like to be described when you are currently accessing a mental health, suicide prevention or alcohol and other drugs service:

How do you like to describe your lived/living or carer experience more broadly (whether you are currently accessing services or not)? What terms don't you like and would prefer are not used??

Select a category and tell us what you prefer or don't like. You can submit as many suggestions as you want. We do not collect any personal information in this activity, you can choose a screen name to display (please don't use anything that will identify you) (max 140 characters).

You have 140 characters left
Moderation Policy

31 October, 2025

emma says:

Person supporting someone with co-existing needs

22 October, 2025

Leonie says:

As a carer I expect to be listened to and any information that I give is vital for my loved ones recovery journey.

21 October, 2025

Deb says:

“Navigating distress” - emphasizes active coping and movement. “Survivor of suicidal crisis” - honors resilience and agency.

14 October, 2025

Mardi says:

Someone with lived experience

1 October, 2025

Tiffany says:

When I describe myself, I say I have a 'lived experience of mental health issues'