Why is it essential to reduce the stigma around substance use disorders (SUDs) and how can we do it?
“We need to dispel the myths that SUDs are due to poor moral character and that all it takes to change behavior is sheer willpower,” says Aimee Peters of Ria Health. “These are brain health diseases that are not that different from any other disease and there are effective treatments.” These outdated ideas that SUDs are an individual failing or a sign of weakness create shame and suffering, which prevents people from seeking necessary treatments.
“It’s challenging to recognize and accept treatment for any chronic disease, whether we’re talking about diabetes, depression, hypertension, or obesity,” adds Bicycle Health’s Dr. Clear. “Now imagine how much more challenging this becomes when the illness you are facing is associated in popular culture with being immoral, even criminal. It’s normal to resist that stigmatized label, and that’s one of the reasons why people struggling with addiction are reluctant to raise their hand and say, ‘I have a problem, please help me’ before it progresses to extremes. “.
To reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help, experts say we need to educate society as a whole about the fact that SUD is a disease with evidence-based treatments including medications and therapies. “We need to discard the false description of the “drug addict” or “addict” and break that stigma by understanding that members of our communities, our workplaces, our families, are often affected by substance use disorders but not defined by them. . ” says Dr. Clear. “They are people and they are struggling with a problem that tends to be highly treatable, especially if it is identified and addressed before it becomes serious.”
We must also stop waiting for people to ask for help. “Proactive screening by healthcare providers is essential,” says Talkspace’s Erica Patton Simpson. “Instead of waiting for people to come forward, we should implement routine screening for substance use disorders. By framing SUDs as chronic health conditions, similar to diabetes or hypertension, we can foster a more compassionate understanding. “This change in perspective is crucial to encouraging those in need to receive treatment.”
Ultimately, creating an environment where seeking help is seen as a strength, rather than a weakness, is key to reducing stigma and improving outcomes for people affected by substance use disorders.
