One of the biggest barriers which stop people from getting help for drug addiction is the stigma associated with it.
Although scientific evidence proves that addiction is a condition of the brain, many view it as a weakness or moral failing. It’s this very stigma which has resulted in decades of misunderstanding, prejudice and people trying to hide their addiction from loved ones.
It’s important that society works hard to overcome the stigma associated with addiction because the effects of it can be very harmful. Aside from negatively influencing someone’s decision to enter drug addiction recovery, the effects can include:
- Discrimination
- Shame and embarrassment
- Isolation and exclusion
- Reluctance to seek help
- Loss of job, home or family
- The families of addicted people may also experience stigma which can lead to shame, anger and guilt
- Depression
- Anger
- Relapse
How to cope with the stigma of drug addiction
Acceptance
Accept that you have a condition and it’s not due to the fact that you wanted it or asked for it. More importantly, remember that recovery is possible and with the right help and support, you will succeed.
Attend group therapy
Group therapy can be hugely beneficial because as well as being able to talk about your struggles, you can get valuable advice from those who have been through what you have and crucially, you will realize that you’re not alone. This support is invaluable.
See a drug addiction therapist
As you learn more about addiction, it often brings immense relief because you can finally understand exactly what it is you’re going through and how you can get better.
The psychological therapy and support that patients receive also helps to build self-esteem and overcome destructive thought patterns that lead to relapse. Understanding and treating the underlying causes of the addiction is a critical component in the healing process. Relying on people who truly understand drug addiction treatment approaches, recovery and everything in between can greatly help the recovery process.
Don’t isolate yourself
The stigma associated with drug addiction often results in people wanting to hide themselves away but try not to isolate yourself. Speak to friends and family about how you feel. Typically, they will be grateful you’re opening up to them and can be of great support in the recovery process.
Don’t fall into the negativity trap
You might hear negative things about addiction and recovery but you don’t have to believe everything you hear. It’s hurtful to hear negative comments but try to turn it into a positive – you can use this negativity as fuel to work harder at your recovery and prove people wrong.
Adopt healthy coping skills
Drug addiction recovery is an incredibly difficult and emotional period of your life and certain times will feel much tougher than others. Keeping all the feelings you are experiencing in check and coping with the negative stressors in healthy ways will help you work through the situation.
Set goals for yourself
The best way to fight the stigma and the misconceptions about addiction is by showing people how wrong they are. Addiction doesn’t mean you’re morally weak, a failure, a criminal or any less of a person.
Work hard toward your recovery and life goals. Show the world that you are willing to work hard and can overcome this challenge.
Promote awareness
Our society has a skewed and stigmatized view of addiction. It’s time to change that perception and you can help do exactly this. A few great ways to do this include joining groups which promote awareness and advocate your rights and taking the time to educate people about addiction and recovery in your everyday life.
If you think that you or someone you know may need help for drug addiction, please feel free to contact Toronto Trauma & Addiction Counselling in the strictest of confidence and we will be more than happy to help.
