Substance use disorder is one of the most stigmatized medical conditions in the US.
Stigma is a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. Stigma about a person dealing with substance use disorder might include baseless thoughts like they are dangerous or at fault for their condition. Stigma may stem from beliefs that addiction is a moral failing. Addiction and substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic, treatable disease, one from which patients can recover and continue to lead healthy lives.
Stigma’s negative impacts are felt both of those experiencing substance use as well as their loved ones. Stigma reduces the willingness of individuals to seek treatment. Stigmatizing language can negatively influence health care provider perceptions of people with SUD, which can impact the care they provide, and their willingness to believe their patients. Below is a list of language that is outdated and may be stigmatizing.
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Stigmatizing Language
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