Words have immense power. They can inspire, heal, and bring comfort, but they can also wound, stigmatize, and push people away. When it comes to discussing addiction and recovery, the language we use is particularly important. Our words can either contribute to the stigma surrounding addiction or help break it down, offering support and understanding.

Understanding Stigma and Its Impact

Stigma refers to the negative attitudes and beliefs that society holds about a particular group of people. In the context of addiction, stigma manifests as judgment, shame, and discrimination toward those struggling with substance use disorders. This stigma can have serious consequences, including:

• Isolation: People who feel stigmatized may withdraw from social connections, leading to loneliness and increased mental health struggles.
• Barrier to Treatment: Fear of judgment can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need, delaying treatment and prolonging suffering.
• Internalized Shame: Stigma can lead to feelings of worthlessness or self-blame, making it harder for individuals to believe in their ability to recover.

Stigma doesn’t just affect those with addiction; it also impacts their families and loved ones, creating a cycle of silence and shame. Understanding the damaging effects of stigma is the first step in breaking it down.

Words Can Hurt: What Not to Say to Someone in Recovery

Certain phrases and terms can unintentionally harm someone struggling with addiction. Even with good intentions, saying the wrong thing can reinforce negative stereotypes or make someone feel judged or isolated. Here are a few things to avoid:

• “Addict” or “Junkie”: These labels reduce a person to their condition, ignoring their humanity and the complexity of their experience. Instead, use terms like “person with a substance use disorder” or “someone in recovery.” This person-first language acknowledges the individual beyond their addiction.
• “Why can’t you just stop?”: This question oversimplifies addiction, a complex disease that often involves deep-rooted psychological, emotional, and physical components. Instead, try saying, “I’m here to support you in your journey. What can I do to help?”
• “You’re so strong for not using”: While it may seem supportive, this statement can inadvertently imply that using substances is a weakness. A better approach might be, “I’m proud of your progress and the work you’re doing to stay healthy.”

Words Can Heal: What to Say Instead

Being mindful of our language can make a huge difference in supporting someone through recovery. Here are some supportive alternatives:

• “I’m proud of you”: Simple, yet powerful. This phrase focuses on the person’s effort and accomplishments rather than their struggles.
• “How are you feeling today?”: Open-ended questions invite conversation and show that you care about their well-being, not just their recovery.
• “I believe in you”: Encouraging words can help someone feel supported and less alone in their journey.

Breaking the Stigma: The Importance of Language

Stigma surrounding addiction is one of the biggest barriers to recovery. Words like “addict” or “junkie” carry negative connotations that can shame and alienate those affected. By shifting our language, we can help reduce this stigma and create a more supportive environment for those in need.

But breaking the stigma goes beyond just avoiding harmful terms; it’s also about actively choosing words that empower and respect those in recovery. This means being mindful of how we talk about addiction, recognizing it as a medical condition rather than a moral failing.

Moving Forward Mindfully

At Welwynn, we believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, especially during the vulnerable process of recovery. By choosing our words carefully, we can play a part in breaking down stigma and supporting those on their journey to wellness.

Let’s be conscious of how our language shapes our world. Words have the power to hurt, but they also have the power to heal. Let’s choose to uplift, support, and encourage those in recovery—because our words matter.