People with substance use disorders (SUDs) face discrimination and negative bias from society, including people who provide healthcare or other services in the community. Stereotypes that generate prejudice, and ultimately to discrimination, stem from misinformed beliefs about addiction and are fueled further by systemic racism. Use the resources below to learn more about stigma and health disparities as they relate to addiction.
Reducing Stigmatizing Language and Behaviors in the Health Care Setting
- Words Matter – Terms to Use and Avoid When Talking About Addiction. Information and tips to help providers reduce stigma and negative bias while discussing substance use and addiction with patients. New! CME/CE credits available!
- Addressing the Stigma that Surrounds Addiction. Nora’s Blog, April 2020.
- The Stigma and Toll of Addiction. New England Journal of Medicine, April 2020.
Stigma and Health Disparities Across Special Populations
Women
- Your Words Matter–Language Showing Compassion and Care for Women, Infants, Families, and Communities Impacted by Substance Use Disorders – Help destigmatize addiction and substance use disorder and reduce negative bias among pregnant women and mothers by using this resource with background information and tips on language to use or avoid. New! CME/CE credits available!
- Addressing the Unique Challenges of Opioid Use Disorder in Women – Biological differences may influence women’s susceptibility to SUD and addiction, which could have implications for prevention and treatment. Learn more from the Centers for Disease Control.
- Women and Alcohol – Fact sheet from NIAAA with up-to-date research on women and alcohol use and an overview of the long-term effects of alcohol use on women.
Race and Gender
- Minority Health and Health Disparities – Quick facts, research, and more on alcohol use-related health disparities among racial and ethnic minorities from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
- A Message from the Director on Racially Motivated Violence – Nora’s Blog, June 2020.
- Substance Use and SUDs in LGBTQ* Populations
- Access to Addiction Services Differs by Race and Gender – Nora’s Blog, July 2019.
Youth
- Health Disparities in Drug- and Alcohol-Use Disorders: A 12-Year Longitudinal Study of Youths After Detention – American Journal of Public Health, May 2016.