Understanding Addiction Stigma and Discrimination
Addiction causes devastation, leaving a path of destruction caused by untreated substance and alcohol misuse. Many people don’t get help for addiction because of addiction stigma. Effective treatments, such as medications for alcohol or opioid dependencies, are available.
People shame and severely judge those labeled as ‘addicts.’ This feeling can prevent them from seeking assistance and keep them trapped in their addiction.
In this article, we explore the adverse effects of addiction stigma on people and society. We also investigate various approaches aimed at challenging and ultimately reducing the stigma of addiction in the United States.
Stigma of Addiction
Untreated drug and alcohol use leads to thousands of deaths annually and impacts countless additional lives. Many people don’t seek help for addiction because of the stigma. Treatment centers and medications are available to help with alcohol or opioid use disorder.
The label of being an addict is riddled with shame and harsh judgment. Addiction is commonly perceived as morally wrong and unethical. While stigma affects various health conditions, particularly mental illnesses, it is significantly more prevalent among people who use drugs.
What Is the Addiction Stigma?
The addiction stigma refers to the negative perception and discrimination towards individuals with substance use disorders and mental health issues. It is characterized by societal attitudes and beliefs that lead to prejudiced judgments and unfavorable treatment of those affected.
Addiction is often associated with feelings of shame, criticism, and perpetual societal judgment. However, the stereotype of an ‘addict’ should be recognized as what it truly is— a category derived from an oversimplified generalization.
Three Types of Stigmas
The National Health Institute, also known as NIH, recognizes three categories of stigma:
- Structural Stigma: This form of discrimination and prejudice is evident in both public and private sectors, including government and legal frameworks, workplaces, educational settings, healthcare and treatment facilities, and the criminal justice system, encompassing law enforcement, jails, and courts
- Public Stigma (social stigma): Characterized by the general public’s adverse judgments and attitudes, structural stigma perpetuates this stigma through laws and policies. It affects various groups, including police officers, judges, and first responders
- Self-Stigma: As a person with a substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health condition, they become more aware of public stigma, they internalize these discriminatory attitudes, which leads to psychologically damaging emotions
Stigma Effects
Addiction doesn’t just impact the person but also those close to them. Often, the quest for recovery is sidestepped because of the dread of acknowledging the issue, a circumstance usually sustained by relatives because of sensations of embarrassment and shame.
Despite evident signs of drug dependency, only 1 out of 10 Americans suffering from a substance use disorder get treatment for substance misuse.
Research indicates that the public holds significantly more negative views toward those labeled as ‘addicts’ or ‘substance abusers’ compared to people with mental health issues. Often, addiction is perceived as a lesser category of mental illness, with those affected viewed as dangerous and unpredictable rather than unwell.
While some mental health conditions like depression have seen a decrease in stigma, making them less taboo than before, people with addiction continue to be blamed for their condition.
Both the general public and professionals within the criminal justice and healthcare systems frequently regard those dealing with addiction and substance abuse as morally corrupt and making poor choices rather than recognizing them as people battling the complex disease of addiction involving behavioral health components.
Reducing the Stigma of Addiction
When people understand that drug and alcohol addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age or social status, we can begin to combat the stigma associated with addiction. By educating society, including affluent groups, about substance use disorders and available treatments, we can dispel misconceptions and prevent negative judgments, thereby fostering a collective effort to advocate against stigma.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes three approaches to reduce stigma:
- Words Matter. When talking about people with a substance use disorder or those who have faced addiction, as well as their loved ones, use language that does not stigmatize them. Avoid terms such as ‘addict,’ ‘alcoholic,’ or ‘drug abuser,’ which can continue to promote stigma.
- Educating Public Health Professionals. Clinicians, often the first people to meet those with substance use disorders, should work to help stigma reduction of any stereotype and stigma linked to drug addiction.
- Use Person-First Language. Using person-first language removes negative labels and shows that the person is more than their condition. For instance, use phrases like ‘individual struggling with alcohol addiction’ or ‘individual in the process of recovery or extended recovery.’
Addressing Stigma with White Oak Recovery Center
Treatment centers that address addiction stigma in their programs help people better understand and confront stigma after treatment.
White Oak Recovery Center recognizes the enduring impact of stigma following treatment and recovery. We commit to challenging stereotypes and labels to help our residents prepare to counteract them.
At WORC, we offer medical and mental health care around the clock during our medical detox program and throughout treatment. Part of overcoming addiction is overcoming the associated shame. Do not neglect treatment for substance abuse, and act against the stigma of addiction today.
Contact WORC now to speak with one of our compassionate treatment specialists and start your journey to healing.
Medical Disclaimer:
