Would knowing they had a substance use disorder change how you saw them?

For people who have a substance use disorder, stigma is the number one barrier to treatment. But when you choose to see the person, not just their disease, you can change someone's life.

Woman — Business Owner | Sibling | Partner | Friend | Artist

I’m the hairstylist you’ve gone to for years.

Stylist with client — Business Owner | Sibling | Partner | Friend | Artist

Will you still see me for your next cut?

Man — Son | Friend | Brother | Community Leader | Cat Dad

I’m the coworker you sit next to at the office.

Two coworkers in a meeting — Son | Friend | Brother | Community Leader | Cat Dad

Will you still grab lunch with me?

Woman in white coat — Wife | Mother | Sister | Aunt | Hockey Fan

I’m the dentist you see for checkups.

Dentist with patient — Wife | Mother | Sister | Aunt | Hockey Fan

Will you still see me, the person, and trust me with your dental care?

Man — Veteran | Father | Husband | Dog Lover | Uncle

I’m the neighbor you chat with in the morning.

Man and woman talking — Veteran | Father | Husband | Dog Lover | Uncle

Can our kids still play together?

One in twelve Hoosiers meets the criteria for a substance use disorder.¹

So, it's likely you know someone living with one. Whether it's your favorite barista, a neighbor, a friend, or a family member, choose to see their humanity and the person you know behind the addiction. You might just help someone get the courage to seek treatment.

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How We Talk About Addiction Matters

Much of the language people use to talk about addiction can be biased and hurtful, which can keep people from getting the treatment they need.

Use the tool below to discover a better way to talk about substance use disorder. Rework the stigmatizing sentences by clicking on the blue words and phrases. Fight stigma in your community by using the language in yellow when you talk about substance use disorder.

Click on the blue words to see what language to use instead.

I have a drug use problem substance use disorder . I had a
dirty drug screen positive drug screen and lost my job.
I didn’t believe recovery was possible, but
I’ve been clean & sober in recovery for 10 years.
My dad was labeled a junkie substance dependent . He was
arrested as a drug offender for a drug violation . I didn’t think
treatment was available but, with help, he has
stayed clean maintained recovery for 20 years.
Addiction is a choice disease . Using drugs
is a moral weakness changes your brain . It’s difficult possible
for people to kick their drug habit recover from this disease
and go on to live happy, healthy lives.
I have a drug addiction substance use disorder . It’s okay
to see my addiction. But, people choosing to
see me only as an addict as a person really made helped
me feel like I didn’t deserve I deserved recovery.

Stop Stigma in Your Community

How You Can Help

We can all play a part in helping Hoosiers affected by substance use disorders, from changing how we talk about addiction to supporting those in recovery.

LEARN WAYS YOU CAN HELP

The Truth About SUD

Addiction is a disease. Treatment is available. Recovery is possible. Do you know the facts about substance use disorder?

LEARN THE FACTS

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Have questions?
Email KnowtheFactsIndiana@fssa.IN.gov

Know the Facts is an initiative of Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction, funded by the State Opioid Response grant and supported by the Governor’s Office for Drug Prevention, Treatment and Enforcement.

Many of the photos included on this webpage are stock or original photography featuring paid actors. These photos do not represent individuals suffering from substance use disorder or living in recovery. The exception to this are photos of people who are named and share their personal story about substance use disorder. We are grateful for these brave survivors' willingness to come forward to help reduce the stigma of substance use disorder and provide encouragement for those suffering from this chronic disease.

1. Indiana University. The Crisis in Indiana: Addiction affects every aspect of Hoosier life. Publishing date not specified.