This month’s prevention tool: Reframing the language – from weakness to professional practice

How to do it:

1. Start by writing down 5–8 typical phrases you might hear in the workplace. For example:

• “You don’t have to be afraid to ask for help.”
  
  
• “It is not a weakness to reach out.”
  
  
• “Say something if it becomes too much.”
  
  
• “You should not carry this alone.”
  
  
• “We need to become better at being vulnerable.”
  
  
• “She probably needs support right now.”

2. Then discuss: Which words in the phrases may unintentionally reinforce an idea of weakness, vulnerability, or an individual problem?

3. Then rewrite the phrases so they point towards professional practice, quality, and shared responsibility. Examples:

• “It is not a weakness to ask for help” → “Collegial support is part of professional practice.”
  
  
• “You should not carry this alone” → “We distribute pressure so quality can be maintained.”
  
  
• “Say something if it becomes too much” → “Let us agree on how we distribute tasks and follow up when assignments are particularly demanding.”
  
  
• “She needs support” → “We need to ensure a shared overview around the task.”

4. To conclude: Choose three phrases you would like to use more actively in everyday working life. Write them down and put them up, use them in team meetings, or include them in your regular follow-up.

Remember: Collegial support is not only about giving support. It is also about accepting it, so the community has the opportunity to function.