Addressing Stigma

People with substance use related disorders face prejudice and discrimination due to lack of understanding about the disease. Stigma – like prejudice and discrimination – can perpetuate the problem. Unfortunately, negative attitudes toward people who use substances, or mental health conditions, are common.

One of the best methods for addressing stigma is to share experiences – to talk about the recovery journey and to listen to other people’s stories. This project asks Marylanders in recovery about their experiences and the success they’ve achieved despite the stigma they faced.

Stories of stigma associated with substance use disorder from Marylanders:

“The stigma experienced by individuals with behavioral health concerns is more toxic than the symptoms of the conditions they live with. Behavioral health concerns have treatments that counteract the negative effects of the condition – stigma leaves permanent scars and closes the door to possibility, hope, recovery, and wellness.”

— Brendan Welsh, CPRS, Director – Office of Community Based Access and Support

Resources on Stigma:

• Words Matter
• On Our Own
• Shatterproof
• CDC 
• NAMI
• SAMHSA
• Stop Stigma Now
• APA