Stigma

Reducing Stigma Around Substance Use

Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to care for people who use drugs. It can lead to discrimination, isolation, and prevent individuals from seeking support. To create a more compassionate and effective harm reduction approach, we must challenge stigma and recognize addiction as a complex health issue—not a choice.

What is Stigma?

Stigma includes negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors toward people who use drugs. It can take different forms:

• Self-stigma: When individuals internalize shame and avoid seeking help.

• Social stigma: Negative labels and discrimination from society.

• Structural stigma: Policies and practices that create barriers to healthcare, housing, and employment.

Why Stigma is Harmful?

Stigma forces people to hide their drug use, increasing the risks of using alone, unsafe conditions, and overdose. It also prevents access to life-saving services, such as harm reduction programs, healthcare, and treatment options.

How We Can Reduce Stigma?

• Use respectful, person-first language (e.g., "person who uses drugs" instead of "addict").

• Treat people with compassion and dignity—addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failure.

• Educate others to challenge harmful stereotypes and misinformation.

• Support harm reduction initiatives that prioritize health, safety, and non-judgmental care.

Breaking down stigma saves lives. By fostering understanding and reducing judgment, we can create a safer, more supportive society for people who use substances.