Workshop: Words That Wound: Examining the Stigma of Addiction-Words That Wound: Examining the Stigma of Addiction

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The workshop "Words That Wound: Examining the Stigma of Addiction" focused on addressing the negative language and stigma associated with addiction. Led by Dr. Alona Balasanova and a panel of experts, this session explored the impact of stigmatizing language on patient care and the unconscious bias it perpetuates. Through discussions and group activities, attendees learned about person-first language, which emphasizes referring to individuals with substance use disorders respectfully, avoiding terms like "addict" or "abuser." The session highlighted how stigma not only affects patients but contributes to healthcare providers' burnout and reduced empathy.<br /><br />Panelists shared strategies to counter stigma, such as experiential learning and exposure to recovery success stories, to reinforce hope and the possibility of recovery. Dr. Patrice Harris discussed her initiatives to combat the opioid epidemic through media and policy reform, emphasizing the importance of appropriate language in shaping public and professional perceptions.<br /><br />Dr. Ayanna Jordan highlighted the REACH program's efforts to increase diversity among addiction specialists and address stigma in historically excluded communities. Participants were encouraged to challenge stigmatizing language, examine their biases, and use their professional roles to foster a more supportive environment for addiction recovery. The session concluded with a focus on hope and the potential for recovery, reinforcing the importance of positive narratives in addiction treatment and public discourse.

Keywords

addiction stigma

Alona Balasanova

destigmatizing language

addiction psychiatry

Dr. Daryl Shorter

Dr. Patrice Harris

Dr. Ayana Jordan

Project REACH

culturally informed healthcare

media reform

policy reform

person-first language

subconscious biases

compassionate care

chronic medical condition

stigmatizing language

Dr. Alona Balasanova

unconscious bias

healthcare burnout

recovery success stories

opioid epidemic

REACH program

diversity in addiction specialists

positive narratives

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