Stigma & Addiction

What is stigma?

Stigma is a set of negative and unfair beliefs directed at someone or a group of people. Stigma often results from misunderstanding, ignorance, or fear. Stigma is spread through individuals, institutions, and community culture.

What is addiction?

Addiction to alcohol or other substances is a chronic treatable medical illness that can affect anyone. This disease, also called substance use disorder (SUD), causes compulsive use of a substance despite serious health and social consequences. Regions of the brain responsible for motivation, judgment, and reward are affected. Like other chronic diseases, remission (temporary recovery) and relapse are possible.

How does stigma affect people who use drugs?

People suffering from addiction are shamed, blamed, and often criminalized by their community. This stigma they experience can become internalized and lead them to feel hopelessly broken and not deserving of recovery. In this way, stigma perpetuates addiction and prevents people from seeking help.

How can I fight against stigma?

• Understand that addiction is a chronic treatable illness, not a personal choice.

Educate your family and friends. Pass on facts and challenge stereotypes.

• Don’t define people by their drug use. Choose non-stigmatizing language.

Words matter when it comes to how we talk about addiction.

• Add your voice to the conversation.

Let us know why you choose #CompassionOverStigma.