Addressing Stigma in Addiction Treatment
Addiction Can Affect Anyone

Stigma related to addiction, surrounding both those impacted and the available treatments, can be one of the greatest barriers to recovery. Addiction can affect anyone anywhere. The first step in addressing the issues of addiction, is to view it like other chronic diseases without placing fault or blame.

Stigma creates significant challenges for those facing substance use and behavioral health challenges. It often prevents people from seeking or continuing treatment, limits their access to vital services, and leads to feelings of rejection and social isolation. Within treatment settings, stigma can even compromise the quality of care. On a broader community level, it fuels opposition to new facilities, directly limiting access to supports and services.

Turn the Page on Stigma
Ways to Help
Use Person-First Language

Language about addiction has changed. Speak about individuals as people first, rather than defining them by their addiction. Just as someone has cancer but is not defined by it, a person should be seen as someone with a substance use disorder, not labeled an “addict” or “abuser."

 

 

Avoid Placing Blame

People with addiction often experience stigma because of the misconception that their ongoing use or behavior is a choice, rather than a medical condition that affects the brain. Supportive approaches can help them make healthier decisions while also recognizing the complexity of their situation.

Acceptance and Inclusion

Judgment and shaming can make people feel more isolated, while acceptance and being included in social activities help them feel connected. When people are accepted, it can create a positive cycle that leads to less addiction and more chances to belong.

Resources Reducing Stigma in Addiction

Using Person First Language

You can help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction by choosing language that emphasizes the individual.

Stigma Glossary
Stigma in the Workplace

Stigma makes it harder to find and keep talented people in the addiction workforce. 

Workplace Stigma
Addiction: The Next Step
Stigma-Related Podcast Episodes

Public Awareness Campaign
Turn the Page on Stigma

Reducing Stigma

The "Turn the Page on Stigma" campaign reminds us that everyone has a story, and we shouldn’t judge. It empowers New Yorkers to identify and eliminate stigma through person-first language, reducing blame, and promoting acceptance and inclusion. Our goal is to emphasize that there is an individual behind the disease, and that they are not defined by their addiction.
Substance Use Disorder is a medical condition. Being judgmental is a choice. Don't know? Don't judge.

You know what they say about judging a book by its cover? Everyone with an addiction has a story to tell.

Addiction is a medical condition, not a choice. 

 And those living with it - deserve support. Not judgment or rejection. Stop stigma and support treatment.  

Substance use disorder is a treatable medical condition.

What helps people seek treatment is support. What doesn’t help – is shame and stigma. 

Campaign Video

Don't Know. Don't Judge.