From Stigma to Support
Many people are afraid to ask for help with opioid addiction because they are scared of being judged. This fear is caused by this.
What is stigma?
This type of coping strategy involves exercise, deep breathing, or engaging in hobbies to reduce stress without substance use.
Adaptive/Healthy coping
This term refers to the compulsive use of a substance despite harmful consequences.
Addiction
This term describes a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.
Mental health
What is a derogatory term that contributes to stigma around opioid addiction and starts with a J
This coping technique involves writing down thoughts and feelings to process emotions in a healthy way.
Journaling
This is the medical term for physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops using a drug they’re dependent on.
Withdrawal
This life-saving medication can reverse an opioid overdose if administered in time.
Naloxone/Narcan
Stigma can make people feel this emotion, which may stop them from getting help.
Shame
Relying on alcohol or opioids to numb emotional pain is an example of this type of unhelpful coping mechanism.
Maladaptive/Unhealthy coping
This term refers to a temporary return to substance use after a period of abstinence and is often a part of the recovery process.
Relapse
Long-term opioid use can lead to this condition, marked by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences.
Opioid use disorder
Some people believe that addiction is a choice or a moral failure. In truth, it is this.
A disease
This common form of support includes talking to a licensed mental health professional about your thoughts and behaviors.
Therapy
Instead of saying "suffering from mental illness" you would say....
"living with mental illness"
This term refers to the condition when a person experiences both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time.
Dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder
Stigma can stop people from doing this important step toward recovery.
Asking for help
This structured program, often used in addiction recovery, includes 12 steps that guide individuals toward sobriety and personal responsibility.
Social Support programs(like AA or Narcotics Anonymous)
A derogatory term for someone living with opioid use disorder
Addict
This common mood disorder often co-occurs with alcohol use disorder, especially in people self-medicating.
Depression