People with substance use disorders are often stigmatized. Stigma (a negative attitude attached to a person placing disgrace on them for a perceived failing or difference to societal norms) creates feelings of shame, fear, and loneliness, and ultimately prevents them seeking help. Stigma also affects public health interventions proven to reduce drug use such as substitution therapy, needle exchange, and safe use sites. An important way that we can help to end the stigma is to change the language we use. Learn more about SUD stigma and how to combat it here:

• How to change the language used to talk about drug use is discussed in Words matter from the Directors of NIDA, NIAAA, and NIMH

• Information on drug-related stigma from NIDA

• Alcohol-related stigma discussed by NIAAA

• Shatterproof is a non-profit organization dedicated to the remembrance of loved ones lost to the opiate epidemic and has outlined a plan to end stigma

• Healthcare professionals and addiction scientists, especially those not engaged in clinical research also need to change the way they talk and write about drug and alcohol use. Here is a helpful guide.