Addiction is a complex disease that impacts individuals, families, and communities. Yet, addiction also faces an immense stigma that can make individuals feel ashamed and unlikely to seek the help they need. Reducing drug stigma through support, understanding, and education is key to increasing access to addiction treatments. Here are some supportive ways you can help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction.
Choose Compassion Over Judgment
It can be easy to make judgments about those with substance use disorders, but choosing compassion is key to fighting addiction stigma. Seeking to understand the underlying causes of addiction and showing care, empathy, and kindness toward those affected can help shift harmful perceptions. We are all equally deserving of compassion.
Educate Yourself And Others
Many stigmatizing views about addiction come from a lack of understanding. Educating yourself and others about the facts of substance use disorders can debunk myths and stereotypes. Addiction is a health condition, not a choice or moral failing. Share your knowledge with friends and family and encourage others to do the same. Every bit of education makes a difference.
Use Person-First Language
The way we speak about addiction matters. Referring to those with substance use disorders as “addicts” or “alcoholics” is stigmatizing. It’s always best to use person-first language, such as saying “people with addictions” or “person recovering from an alcohol use disorder.” This recognizes that addiction is just one aspect of a whole person. Our language has power, so using person-first language helps reshape attitudes.
Show Support For Those In Recovery
Recovering from addiction is an ongoing process that requires a strong support system. We can all show support for those in recovery by acknowledging their efforts and accomplishments, advocating for them, and creating opportunities for them to feel included and valued. Little acts of support and kindness go a long way toward reducing stigma.
At the drug stigma and rehab summit conference, advocates discussed ways to combat stigma and provide pathways to recovery.
Promote & Support Addiction Treatment Services
Lack of access to evidence-based addiction treatment is a barrier for many on the path to recovery. We need to advocate for and promote accessible treatment resources in our communities. This includes harm reduction services, counseling, residential and outpatient rehabs, support groups, and more. Recovery is often a long journey, so ongoing support at every stage is needed.
Share Stories Of Recovery
There are countless stories of people recovering and living full lives after addiction. Sharing stories of recovery helps put a face to addiction and replaces stigma with hope. It shows people with addictions what is possible for their future and allows others to see them with compassion instead of judgment. Look for opportunities to platform and amplify stories of recovery.
Call Out Stigmatizing Language & Behaviors
When you witness stigmatizing language or behaviors towards those with substance use disorders, it’s important to call them out. Explain why certain words or actions are harmful, judgmental, or insensitive. While it can be uncomfortable, calling out stigma when we see it is the only way to change attitudes. Do so with empathy, understanding, and care for the person exhibiting the stigma. Educate them on how to do better in the future.
Support Policy Changes
One of the most impactful ways to influence change is through policy. Support politicians and legislation working to enact policy changes that reduce stigma and increase opportunities for those with substance use disorders. This includes policies aimed at decriminalizing addiction, improving access to healthcare, increasing funding for treatment, and more. Collectively advocating for policy changes has the power to shape our culture and systemically fight addiction stigma.
