What is the stigma of substance use?
Substance use is more than just a personal struggle; it’s a societal challenge that’s deeply rooted in misunderstanding and prejudice. For individuals grappling with addiction, the stigma of substance use disorder (SUD) can be a formidable barrier to seeking help.
Addiction is not a choice; it is a treatable condition that affects millions of people; in the United States in 2021, SAMHSA revealed that 46.3 million people over the age of 12 reported having substance dependence, and 94% of those people did not receive treatment for their addiction where stigma is one of the causes for not searching for help.
So, you may ask, what is the stigma of substance use? One of the main ones is social stigma. People with SUD often face prejudice and discrimination from society, whether it is social rejection, loss of job opportunities, or lack of emotional support.
Many clients who visit our treatment centers in Nashua, NH, often share their struggles with feeling marginalized and judged by society. In this blog by GateHouse Treatment, we want to talk about the consequences of stigma and how we can change this mindset. Even if we don’t have a disorder or a family member suffering from dependence, it is our responsibility to create a more empathetic community. Let’s explore how we can all contribute.
Understanding Stigma and its Consequences
Stigma related to SUD refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes that society holds towards individuals who struggle with addiction. This stigma can manifest in various ways, contributing to discrimination, marginalization, and barriers to seeking help for those affected by it.
According to the Department of Labor, there are three types of stigmas surrounding dependence:
Social Stigma – Emerges from negative stereotypes attached to individuals or those perceived to belong to a group with socially unpleasant traits. This phenomenon, fueled by misconceptions, partial truths, and broad generalizations, imposes undesirable labels on group members. For example, individuals recovering from substance use disorder may unjustly carry labels such as “addicts” or “alcoholics,” often being viewed as untrustworthy, deceitful, dangerous, or lacking in willpower and character. Similarly, those using medications for opioid use disorder face stigmatization, driven by misconceptions that medication merely replaces one addiction with another.
Self-Stigma – Internalized stigma occurs when people belonging to a stigmatized group start believing in negative stereotypes about themselves, leading to feelings of shame and resistance to seeking help. The “why try” effect sets in, which means that those individuals start thinking that seeking help is pointless due to inherent flaws or insurmountable obstacles in the way of their recovery.
Public Stigma – Refers to widespread negative attitudes and beliefs within society toward individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Public stigma may contribute to the criminalization of substance use, discriminatory policies, and societal norms that stigmatize and marginalize those affected.
Moreover, The study “Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders” evidence that stigma can act as a significant barrier to accessing addiction treatment and recovery resources. This obstacle happens because individuals with SUD often internalize the negative perceptions and stereotypes associated with their condition, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation (self-stigma).
The study also emphasizes the societal impact of this stigma. It contributes to discriminatory practices in various sectors like employment, housing, and education, as well as social exclusion and discrimination. This intolerance affects not only the quality of life of these individuals but also increases the risk of harmful outcomes such as overdose and suicide.
4 Things You Can Do to Break the Stigma of Substance Use
The stigma of substance use is deeply ingrained in our society, as we see in this blog, and is preventing individuals from seeking the help and support they need. To create a more compassionate and understanding community, it is essential that we actively work towards breaking down this mindset.
1. Educate Yourself
You can begin by familiarizing yourself with addiction, including its effects on individuals, contributing factors, and treatment options, and understanding that dependence is a medical condition and not a moral failing.
2. Shift Language Terminology
The language we use plays a significant role in shaping perceptions. It’s crucial to move away from stigmatizing language and adopt terminology that is more neutral and compassionate. For instance, instead of labeling individuals as “addicts” or “junkies,” we can use person-first language, such as “individuals with substance use disorder.” This shift emphasizes the person rather than reducing them to their condition.
You can learn more about terms to use and avoid with the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
3. Encourage Empathy and Compassion
Society should promote a culture of empathy and compassion towards those struggling with dependence. Understanding that addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue allows us to approach individuals with kindness rather than judgment.
4. Motivate Open Dialogue in Communities
Encourage open conversations about substance use within communities, workplaces, and educational institutions. Organize events, workshops, or forums that provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences without fear of judgment
By incorporating these additional strategies into collective efforts, we can further enhance the impact of initiatives aimed at dismantling the stigma of substance use. Breaking free from outdated stereotypes and fostering an environment of understanding and support will pave the way for a more compassionate and informed society.
The Importance of an Open Conversation about Substance Use
Talking about substance use shouldn’t be shadowed by fear of judgment. Conversations can shed light on what addiction truly is – a complex health issue rather than a moral failing or a choice. By speaking up:
- We Educate: Through discussion, we can disperse the myths surrounding addiction and replace misinformation with facts
- We Connect: Sharing experiences builds empathy and bridges gaps between those affected and the wider community
- We Empower: Open dialogue allows individuals to take steps toward recovery and helps families understand how they can support their loved ones
Dependence Treatments Do Work!
While no one treatment guarantees long-term recovery, various programs and approaches help mitigate the symptoms of addiction, prevent relapse, and address the underlying causes that lead to use.
At GateHouse Treatment, we implement a variety of recovery options, such as medication-assisted treatment, which uses FDA-approved drugs to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. Additionally, our programs offer intensive or partial hospitalization options, therapy, and a variety of other tools to help individuals rebuild their lives.
Despite the stigma and rejection associated with use, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to reduce the risks associated with addiction and achieve a better quality of life. Your success story can not only positively transform your own life but also have a significant impact on people who are going through similar situations and need inspiration.
Achieve Recovery with GateHouse Treatment
Together, we can break the stigma of substance use. It all starts with an open, honest conversation free of stereotypical ideas. By talking openly about addiction, we lay the foundation for better understanding and support.
For individuals and families grappling with substance use dependence, remember: You are not alone. Reaching out to GateHouse Treatment is a confidential way to access various treatments tailored to help you or your loved one regain control over life.
At GateHouse Treatment, your story is heard, your journey respected, and your recovery paramount. Call us at 855-448-3588 or share your contact information here to get help now.
Together, let’s break the stigma and pave the way toward healing and hope.
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