Language Could Save a Life

“Words have the general power to bring to light the experiences that lie in the shadow or have receded into it, and the specific power to call places into being.” (Tuan, 1991. p 686)

The power of language (oral or written) is often underestimated or dismissed, particularly in the realm of cyber space. Already, phrases such as “cyber space” and “the world wide web” give us a preconceived perception of what the internet is; they help us establish an understanding of virtual space.

Language and communication
 could save a life, specifically in
mental health matters. (Health Quotes Pinterest, 2016)  

Victoria Kuttainen (2016) describes the internet as a hub that unifies a large amount of diverse people groups. For instance, a number of well-known Instagram users use the platform as a way to share their thoughts and opinions with their followers. Successful Instagramers often interact with their followers on an emotional level.

For example, Danielle Mansutti, a popular Instagram user with over 400,000 followers, originally became known for her beauty-inspired YouTube channel. However, in more recent months, Danielle has used her power to discuss the more serious topic of mental health. In doing so, she has created a place in which her following feel comfortable sharing personal stories and experiences. Tuan (1991. p 690) explains that “the quality of human communication, including the kinds of words… used, seems to infect the material environment, as though a light – tender [or] bright… – has been cast over it.” By communicating empathy and support, Danielle has transformed a space that generally feels isolated and vast into a place where her followers can seek warmth, interaction and advice.

Furthermore, Thu-Huong Ha (2013) from TED.com discusses the importance of language and communication, specifically in regards to mental health issues. She highlights the significance of speech, and gives advice on how to appropriately discuss mental illness in order to, quite possibly, save a life.

Ha, T-H. (2013) How should we talk about mental health? Retrieved from http://ideas.ted.com/how-should-we-talk-about-mental-health/

Kuttainen, V. (2016). BA1002: Networks, narratives and the making of place, lecture 5: Stories of place: Story lines.

Tuan, Y-F. (1991). Language and the making of place: A narrative-descriptive approach. Annals of the Association of American Geographers. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/2563430.pdf

Image:

 N.A. (2016) Health quotes. Retrieved from https://au.pinterest.com/pin/535858055645803426/