Overcoming Stigma
YOU can make a difference Above the High… Stigma Hurts!What is Stigma?
Stigma is a set of negative or unfair beliefs against a group of people, a place, or a nation that often causes unfair or different treatment of that group. Stigma about people with substance use disorder (SUD) might include misbeliefs such as, that they are dangerous, incapable of managing or completing treatment, or at fault for their condition. Stigma creates fear and reinforces negative stereotypes. Stigma causes harm and it shames individuals into silence which may prevent them from seeking help and may limit accessible resources.
Thankfully, research shows us that we can help reduce stigma by using “person-first language” to help reduce stigma in ourselves and those around us. For example, saying “a person with a substance use disorder” instead of an “addict” or “substance abuser” will help reduce the stigma surrounding this disease instead of worsening it.
Language Matters
Below are some simple statements you can use to help decrease substance use stigma. (Adopted from Utah State University)
Words to Avoid
Addict
Drug problem, drug habit
Drug abuse
Clean
Dirty
A clean drug screen
A dirty drug screen
Former/reformed addict/alcoholic
Opioid replacement, methadone maintenance
Relapse
Addicted baby/born addicted
Words to Use
Person with substance use disorder
Person with alcohol use disorder
Substance use disorder
Drug misuse, harmful use
Abstinent, not actively using
Actively using
Testing negative for substance use
Testing positive for substance use
Person in recovery, person in long-term recovery
Medication assisted treatment
Return to use or recurrence of use
Baby with neonatal abstinence syndrome
Increase Your Understanding
Along with changing our language, you can help reduce stigma and support acceptance by getting to know the people in your life who may be struggling with or recovering from SUD and learning their stories. Once you know the person and their story, you can begin to understand them and better recognize the weight behind your word choices.
Below are some facts that everyone should understand on their path to reducing the stigma and negative treatment towards those struggling with addiction.
Everyone is different. Each person’s path to using substances is unique. Examine your beliefs about why some people become addicted to substances.
Everyone is different. No single treatment is the answer to all SUDs. Treatment varies based on personality and personal preference. Examine your beliefs about treatment styles, including those involving medication.
Everyone is different. Recovery is a process that patients with SUD often have to repeat. Examine your beliefs about recovery being a lifelong process.