Stigma - Prevention Partners of Northern Middlesex

What should I know about substance use disorder in order to reduce stigma?

Why does stigma matter?

What can I do to end stigma?

You can make a difference by creating a stigma-free environment in your family, community, workplace, and/or health care setting.

In your family

Learn how to talk to a loved one about their substance use.
Understand options for treatment with medications for substance use disorder, including options for opioid use disorder, and support your loved one’s interest in going to and staying in treatment, which can be years long.
Use person-first language (e.g., say “person with substance use disorder” instead of “addict”) to put people before their diagnosis and choose words that lessen blame and shame.

In your community

Learn how faith-based and community organizations can support people with substance use disorder in finding and staying in treatment with the aim of rebuilding their lives and getting back to work.
Create an action plan to change negative beliefs in your community about substance use disorder and its treatment with medications through education, grassroots organizing, and advocacy.

In your workplace

Discover how workplaces can create a recovery-friendly environment for employees.
Improve access to treatment with medications for substance use disorder at your workplace.

In your health care setting

Use recommended language to reduce stigma in health care settings.
Participate in an “Understanding Addiction” training and earn 8 hours of continuing education credits.
Learn how you can start prescribing medications for substance use.

Interested in ordering free resources to share with your community, workplace, and/or health care setting? Check out what the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s #StateWithoutStigMA campaign and order free resources through the Massachusetts Clearing House.

Stand up to Stigma

What should I know about substance use disorder in order to reduce stigma?

Why does stigma matter?

What can I do to end stigma?