OVERCOMING STIGMA
YOU can make a difference Above the High… Stigma Hurts!What is Stigma?
Stigma is an unfair or different treatment against a group of people, a place, or a nation. Stigma about people with substance use disorder (SUD) might include untrue thoughts like, they are dangerous, incapable of managing treatment, or at fault for their condition. Stigma creates fear. Stigma causes harm and it shames individuals into silence which may prevent them from seeking help.
You can contribute to reducing stigma and promoting social inclusion by understanding who the person struggling with or recovering from SUD is and by learning their story! Once you get to know a person with substance use disorder, you can learn to love them, and better understand the weight of the meanings of your words.
Language Matters
Often the terms people use in the community to describe someone that has SUD have negative connotations which further perpetuates stigma. Through powerful words and actions, we can shift the social and systemic barriers for those living with these conditions. By ending stigma, we can create hope!
Words to avoid
Addict
Alcoholic
Drug problem, drug habit
Drug abuse
Clean
Dirty
A clean drug screen
A dirty drug screen
Former/reformed addict/alcoholic
Opioid replacement, methadone maintenance
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
Increase Your Understanding
Below are some simple steps you can take to better understand substance use stigma. (Adopted from Utah State University)
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.
Everyone is different. Recovery is a process that patients with SUD often have to repeat. Examine your beliefs about recovery being a lifelong process.
