The opioid crisis is not just a public health emergency, it’s also a crisis of compassion. Stigma around drug use can be just as harmful as the drugs themselves, creating barriers to care, deepening isolation, and costing lives. Here’s what stigma looks like, why it matters, and how we can all help reduce it.
Stigma is the negative judgment, discrimination, or stereotyping of people based on their substance use. It can show up in three main ways:
- Self-stigma: When individuals internalize shame and blame, leading to low self-esteem and reluctance to seek help.
- Social stigma: Negative attitudes from others like calling someone a “junkie” or assuming they’re dangerous can isolate people and discourage recovery.
- Structural stigma: Policies or practices in healthcare, housing, or employment that treat people who use drugs unfairly or deny them services.
Stigma can:
- Prevent people from asking for help
- Lead to using drugs alone raising the risk of fatal overdose
- Reduce access to housing, jobs, and healthcare
- Result in poorer treatment from medical professionals
In both Canada and the U.S., stigma is a major barrier to addressing the opioid crisis effectively.
Addiction is a treatable medical condition, not a moral failure. People use drugs for many reasons—trauma, chronic pain, mental health struggles, or environmental factors. No one chooses to become addicted, and recovery looks different for everyone.
You don’t need to be a healthcare worker to make a difference. Here’s how to reduce stigma in everyday life:
- Use respectful language: Say “person who uses drugs” instead of “addict.”
- Challenge stereotypes: Speak up when you hear harmful myths or jokes.
- Be compassionate: Treat people with dignity, regardless of their substance use.
- Share facts: Educate others about addiction and recovery.
Stigma kills. But empathy, education, and respect can save lives. Let’s replace judgment with support and help build a society where everyone feels safe to ask for help.
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