Battling the Stigma of Addiction

Oxford dictionary defines stigma as, “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.” Everyone is vulnerable to addiction. Unfortunately, society continues to stigmatize those who suffer from addiction. Stigma brings on negative emotions creating shame, disgrace and thoughts of worthlessness.

Although there are many road blocks keeping people from getting help, only 10% of people that need help for drug or alcohol addiction get help each year. Society’s stigma prevents many from reaching out for the treatment they need.

Social isolation can also develop because of stigma. Often times those closest to the addict, such as, friends and family are creating that isolation. This causes the individual with an addiction to lose their support system at a time when they need it most. Sigma also has the power to stay with people for an entire lifetime.

Addiction is a treatable disease that can affect anyone. It is not a weakness or character flaw, as many believe it to be. With support and treatment a recovering addict can come out on the other side, stronger than they were before.

When an individual knows they need treatment for addiction, it is unacceptable for stigma to get in the way of their recovery. It is important to support those in recovery, because they are taking steps in the right direction toward turning their life around.

You can find MCCA on Facebook and Twitter @FriendsofMCCA providing daily information on addiction.

For information about treatment and our programs please call our main office at (877) 874-6222 or (203) 792-4515 or visit us online at: MCCAOnline.com

Albert Einstein once said, "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.