UNVEILING THE INFLUENCE OF LANGUAGE ON MENTAL HEALTH STIGMA AMONG INDONESIAN MILLENNIALS: A COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION OF THE IMPACT OF LINGUISTICS ON PERCEPTION

Muhammad Rifki Adinur Zein
Wagiati
Nani Darmayanti
Muhamad Adji

Jurnal Kajian Budaya dan Humaniora (JKBH)
Vol 8 No 3 (2026): Jurnal Kajian Budaya dan Humaniora (JKBH), Oktober, 2026

This research reveals the important role of language in creating and maintaining mental health-related stigma. Labels used to describe individuals with mental health diagnoses influence how people perceive them and can dehumanize or even stigmatize the person behind the label. This mixed-methods (quantitative and qualitative) study involved 30 participants, mostly young people aged 15-30. Generic mental health labels such as "mental illness" or "mental health problem" tend to give more positive perceptions than specific labels. However, more specific labels must also be considered to appreciate the differences in mental health conditions and provide appropriate support. This research highlights the need to use inclusive and empathic language in communication to reduce the potential for stigmatization. To create a more supportive environment for individuals with mental health, judicious choice of words and language is essential to counter mental health-related stigma.