Breaking the Stigma of Addiction

When I look back on 2020, I see a maelstrom of uncertainty, social unrest and division. But despite where my political proclivities lie, there is a pervasive problem that took a backseat to the rest. A problem that preys on all walks of life. And during the Presidential debates, we heard a little bit about it on a personal level.

President Joe Biden spoke about his son’s addiction. And whether you lean toward the left, center or right, it is hard to deny its impact.

“My son, like a lot of people at home, had a drug problem. He’s overtaking it.” President Biden said.

Whether you hate, love or feel indifference toward the man, his words resonated with millions of Americans. They shed light on an otherwise forgotten problem: Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Truth is, COVID-19 has hijacked so much of the world’s attention. And along with it, grew a new set of problems. But that doesn’t mean that SUD’s have miraculously gone away. Rather, it’s worse.

SUD and Addiction on the Rise

As a nation, we came to an unprecedented standstill with this pandemic. We isolated, we quarantined, and we knew not what to expect. And the ancillary side effects? A growth in depression, suicides, anxiety and misuse of substances.

Many have turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with the deafening silence of isolation and stress. Compared to a year ago, overdoses from substance abuse are up 13 percent. Studies have shown that both drinking and substance use are on the rise. And nearly one-third of Americans are suffering from pandemic-related depression or anxiety.

According to the New York Times, more than 40 states recorded an increase in opioid-related deaths since the pandemic began. In Arkansas, the use of Narcan, an overdose-reversing drug, has tripled. Jacksonville, Fla., has seen a 40 percent increase in overdose-related calls. And York County, Pa., recorded three times more overdose deaths than normal.

The Stigma of Addiction

Substance use has no barriers. It doesn’t see race, religion, gender, social class or political affiliations. But it does affect approximately 20 million Americans, a harrowing number that beats even cancer statistics.

More than likely you know someone who has battled cancer, which means you might know someone who struggles with SUD. The difference? It’s not as talked about, accepted or understood.

Society tends to look at those with addiction as inferior, weak or troubled. But certainly not as people afflicted with a disease.

Most cancer patients receive treatment for their illnesses. But only about 10 percent of people dealing with SUD’s seek treatment. And it all boils down to the societal label placed on them; the fear of non-acceptance. Because even though addiction is a medically diagnosed disease, it is still widely viewed as a bad habit.

The stigma that surrounds addiction is one rooted in weakness, laziness and shame. If a person were to admit their problem, they’re often met with a judgmental perspective. They’re afraid they may lose their job or damage their relationships.

But if we can increase awareness that addiction is a chronic disease, then we can begin a conversation that is very much long overdue.

Breaking the Stigma

According to an article published by The Augusta Chronicle, treatment is a two-way process. Meaning, the person seeking addiction treatment services must be fully engaged in their services, as much as their therapist. Treatment is a long-term process, and as with any other underlying issues, like high blood pressure or diabetes, a combination of treatment services, medications, and lifestyle changes might be needed.

So above all things, educate yourself about addiction. Become an expert. It is imperative that everyone affected by this condition recognize it is a chronic and treatable disease.

Dive head first into medical research, personal testimonials, and community awareness. Reliable sources include:

• American Society of Addiction Medicine
• National Behavioral Health Council
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Be sure to speak about it wisely. What we say and what we do makes a difference. That’s how we minimize the stigma. Elicit empathy, express compassion, and make your personal experience a safe place for people to talk about their challenges.

Social media is a powerful platform to spread awareness. It engages the masses while simultaneously combating the stigma. Today, more than 23 million Americans are in recovery, so personal accounts of expertise and experiences breaks the barrier. Whether you’ve dealt with it directly or through a family member, you can empower others by sharing your story and perhaps encourage someone to seek treatment and/or stay in recovery.

Start eliminating the bias, by removing how you think someone should or shouldn’t be behaving during recovery. It’s a process. It’s a disease. And it can affect anyone.

Remember … Strength comes in numbers.