What can we do to challenge drugs and alcohol stigma?

The Scottish Government is launching a campaign to help end the stigma of problematic substance use (drugs and alcohol) in a bid to make it easier for those with a drug or alcohol problem to seek help.

The campaign will emphasise that a drug or alcohol problem is a health condition and judging individuals affected can have a devastating effect on their ability to seek and access help and support.

People are being encouraged to reflect on their attitudes and challenge any perceptions they hold, or display, towards those who are struggling with a drug or alcohol problem, highlighting that for most this is not an active choice and is often triggered by other factors (including trauma).

It is hoped the campaign will make people consider the ways in which they could think and behave differently to play their part in reducing stigma.

Drugs policy minister Angela Constance said: ‘This is a hard-hitting national campaign that encourages people to see the personal story behind the stereotype.

‘Stigma is damaging not only to the individual in terms of their mental health and sense of self-worth but it also discourages them from coming forward to get the help they need. It also impacts on friends and family members.

‘We must remember that people with a substance use problem are family members, neighbours, friends and colleagues.

‘By addressing stigma, and the silence and alienation it causes, we make it easier for people to seek help and that is to the benefit of each and every one of us.’

How you can help tackle the stigma

▮ You can help challenge stigma by speaking up when you hear people around you make negative or wrong comments about people with a drug or alcohol problem.

▮ Remember that a drug or alcohol problem should be treated as a health condition and those affected should get the same support as those dealing with a health issue.

▮ Think about the language used when talking about someone with a drug or alcohol problem. Are you using language that is judgemental? ▮ Don’t define or group the person based on their drug or alcohol problem.

▮ The negative labels applied to people who have a drug or alcohol problem can stop people from getting the support they need.

▮ Avoid using the terms: addict, alcoholic, junkie, jakey, clean, substance abuse.

▮ Try using these terms instead: person with problematic substance use, person with harmful alcohol use, person with problematic drug use, abstinent/person who has stopped using drugs, substance use.