In our society, addiction is often misunderstood and vilified, leading to profound stigmatization of those with substance use disorders. This stigma can manifest as negative attitudes, discrimination, and biases that create significant barriers to recovery. Given the devastating impact of drug overdoses on American lives—with over 800,000 fatalities between 1999 and 2020*—it is crucial that we address this issue head-on.
The History of Stigma
Stigma, derived from Latin and Greek, originally referred to a mark signifying disgrace. In today’s context, it alludes to labeling, discrimination and stereotyping. One of the prevalent misconceptions is that addiction is a personal choice and reflects a moral failing. Such beliefs are deep-rooted and persistent, not only in the general public but also among professionals, including those in the health care industry.
There is an abundance of evidence demonstrating that stigma adversely affects the health and well-being of those with substance use disorders. It creates a barrier to accessing quality care in clinical settings. The urgency to combat this stigma cannot be stressed enough.
“At PPI, we believe that every individual deserves a chance at a brighter tomorrow. Our commitment isn’t just to treat symptoms but to empower each patient with knowledge, understanding and the tools to rebuild their lives,” says Joel Thomas, a counselor 1 at PPI.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) further underscores that the stigma against those with substance use disorders hampers effective treatment. Many aren’t aware that substance use disorders are caused by changes in the brain that render drug use a compulsion, often leading to behaviors that further alienate and stereotype individuals with addiction.
“Mental health care isn’t a luxury but a lifeline for those with substance use disorders. It’s the bridge that connects despair to hope, isolation to community and illness to healing,” emphasizes Dr. Sarah Sharfstein Kawasaki, MD, assistant professor of Psychiatry and director of Addiction Services at PPI.
The onus is on health care providers and society at large to understand and treat substance use disorders for what they truly are: chronic yet treatable medical conditions. Individuals grappling with these disorders deserve empathy, compassion and respect.
The Power of Language
One way to combat this damaging stigma is through our words. The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes the importance of “person-first” language. Rather than label someone as a “substance abuser”, we should say “person with a substance use disorder,” recognizing their humanity first. Such shifts in language, while seemingly small, can have profound effects on how individuals with substance use disorders are perceived and treated.
Societal Inequities and Stigma
Systemic issues, such as racism, can compound the challenges faced by those with substance use disorders. Discrimination can increase susceptibility to these issues and impede access to vital treatments. These inequalities further underline the urgency of fostering understanding and compassion in our approach to addiction.
A Call to Action
Each one of us has a role to play in reducing stigma. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, family member or someone directly affected by substance use, it’s imperative to:
- Use appropriate, non-stigmatizing language.
- Educate yourself and others about the nature and causes of addiction.
- Advocate for accessible, evidence-based treatments.
- Stand against systemic discrimination that intensifies stigma.
PPI’s Commitment: The AIR Program
Understanding the complex nature of addiction and the importance of compassionate, expert care, PPI introduced the Advancement in Recovery (AIR) Program. This comprehensive Medication Assisted Treatment Program is tailor-made for individuals grappling with Opioid Use Disorder.
The AIR team is a group of dedicated medical doctors and clinicians with profound expertise in handling opioid use disorders and transitioning patients to Buprenorphine, Methadone and Vivitrol. These experts stand by patients through every phase of treatment, providing not just medical intervention, but also the emotional and psychological support essential for recovery.
Stigma can be a formidable adversary in the battle against addiction. However, with informed perspectives, compassionate approaches, and evidence-based treatments like the AIR program, we can create a society where individuals with SUDs receive the support and understanding they so rightly deserve.