Worried about the Stigma of Drug Addiction?

Getting treatment for a substance abuse disorder is only one facet of the recovery process. Even after you stop using drugs and develop healthy ways to cope with stress, intense emotions, and temptations, you might be affected by the stigma of drug addiction. Unfortunately, stigma can impair your self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Many people feel too ashamed to follow through with treatment.

The Stigma Of Drug Addiction Defined

Stigma occurs when people share negative beliefs about a particular subject or collection of individuals. In the case of addiction, it happens when loved ones or the general public hold a certain stereotype regarding people who use drugs.

The stigma of drug addiction leads to the marginalization of individuals with a substance abuse disorder. Derogatory terms that are used to label people who use drugs perpetuate the problem.

People who suffer from addiction are not inherently evil people. They aren’t weak, and they don’t lack willpower. Their addiction does not define them.

These are the beliefs that many people have to deal with when it comes to living with a substance abuse disorder. Much of the stigma of drug addiction stems from a lack of education about this mental health disorder.

How The Stigma Of Drug Addiction Affects Your Prognosis

The 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that only 11 percent of people ages 12 or older pursued treatment for their drug or alcohol addiction. People who have dealt with shame and discrimination because of their drug abuse might be less likely to seek help.

If you feel embarrassed or disgraced because you struggle with addiction, you might feel hopeless. Stigma can contribute to loneliness, isolation, and depression. A co occurring disorder can further complicate your path to recovery.

Breaking The Stigma And Getting Help For Addiction

The shame associated with addiction doesn’t just come from family members, colleagues, and peers. Stigma can come from within. Some people beat themselves up because they can’t stop using drugs.

Healthcare providers can also perpetuate stigma. It’s important to get assistance from experienced, supportive health professionals who specialize in addiction. Attending addiction recovery meetings allows you to surround yourself with people who know what you’re going through.

At Beaches Recovery, we understand what you’re going through. Our goal is to help you heal as you work on self-discovery. We offer treatment options for your specific needs, including programs for:

• Student addiction treatment
• Mens drug addiction rehab program
• Womens drug addiction rehab program
• Executive opiate rehab
• First responders alcohol treatment

You are not your addiction so don’t let any perceived stigma of drug addiction curtail your rehab. Our programs help you focus on your strengths while developing skills for coping with the obstacles that encourage your chemical dependence. Call us at 866.605.0532 if you or someone you know needs compassionate care for addiction.