Why Your Words Matter
Stigma surrounding substance use disorders remains one of the most significant barriers to recovery. It prevents people from seeking care, isolates families, and reduces the quality of treatment people receive. Educational campaigns such as Change the Narrative, Your Words Matter, and Lift the Label encourage compassion and understanding.
Using People-First Language
Using people-first language is an effective way to reduce stigma. This approach focuses on the individual rather than their condition, helping them feel respected and supported.
Using people-first language focuses on the person, not their condition. This language can help people feel safe to ask for help and less judged for their substance use disorder. Together, we can change the narrative around SUD and mental health.
| Instead of... | Use... |
|---|---|
| Addict / Junkie / User / Abuser | Person with a substance use disorder or person engaging in substance use |
| Testing dirty | Testing positive (on a drug screen) |
| Reformed addict | Person in recovery |
| Clean | Being in recovery |
| Mentally ill | Person with a mental health condition |
| Suffering from... | Diagnosed with |
People-first language empowers individuals to seek help and reduces judgment. Together, we can change how we talk about SUD and mental health.
Tips for Changing the Narrative
- Avoid hurtful or negative labels.
- Encourage and correct others to use person-first language.
- Create safe spaces for open dialogue and connection.
- Share stories of hope and recovery from family members, peers, and community leaders.
Using people-first language focuses on the person, not their condition. This language can help people feel safe to ask for help and less judged for their substance use disorder. Together, we can change