THE POWER OF LANGUAGE IN REDUCING STIGMA SURROUNDING ADDICTION

Addiction is a disease that affects people worldwide with the United Nations Office and Crime estimating that about 250 million people used illicit substance at least once last year.

consequently promote a compassionate Derogatory words are dehumanising and inclusive environment and thus saying statements like for those diagnosed with addiction a “person with substance use disorder” disorders to thrive. rather “an addict” can go a long The derogatory words we use on way in restoring the dignity they so those diagnosed with addiction disorders need. We need to be oblivious of the It’s unfortunate that individuals can reinforce negative stereotypes. fact those diagnosed with addiction struggling with addiction often face Examples of derogatory words disorders feel worthless and hopeless stigma and discrimination that hinders include, “letagwa,” “letlhapelwa,” and thus such words can actually their recovery process. addict and abuser, to name but a reinforce that feeling.

Some stigma tendencies are few. The negative stereotypes include With use of appropriate language, brought about by language we use the views that those diagnosed empathy towards those diagnosed towards those struggling with addiction with addiction disorders brought it with addiction disorders is nurtured hence today’s discussion will to themselves, are weak and have and promoted. explore how language can be used to morally failed. Empathy is the ability to understand reduce stigma. This stereotypes can lead to some and share feelings of others; a

Addiction is a complex medical prejudice. We should acknowledge trait that will help people recognise disease that is caused by a combination that addiction disorders are caused the struggles and challenges endured of genetic, environmental and by social, trauma, and genetic factors by those diagnosed with addiction behavioural factors. if we are to challenge the negative disorders.

As earlier highlighted, the disease stereotypes. Words do matter. By using appropriate of misunderstood and stigmatised It is paramount therefore to use language we can be able to which adversely affects treatment person-first language in order to challenge negative stereotypes and uptake, support and ability to seek stop this. Person first language shifts promote understanding of addiction support. Language does play a the focus from the negative behaviours disorders which make it easier to critical role as far as addiction is concerned associated with addiction to for individuals to seek help and feel as it can reduce stigma and the individual’s worth and dignity. accepted and supported.

Email; dsmangwegape@gmail.com | Facebook; David Sidney Mangwegape