ADDICTION: STIGMA VS. FACTS
Many families and their loved ones struggle with the stigma of addiction. One definition of stigma is “a negative attitude or discrimination against someone based on a distinguishing characteristic such as mental illness, health condition, or disability.” Unfortunately, even in this day and age, there is still a large portion of our society that view addiction in this way. They see it as a disgrace or a moral weakness. It is neither. Stigma is nothing more than ignorance and ignorance is defined as “lack of knowledge or information.”
The fact of the matter is that addiction is a mental disorder. Period. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, a U.S. government medical agency, defines addiction as ” a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness.” Folks, when we talk about addiction or alcoholism, we are talking about a Disease. Not disgrace or moral weakness.
I know it’s hard to let go of the feelings of shame, embarrassment and guilt that are often associated with this family disease. Take the time to educate and inform yourselves on what is true and what is not. The brain is an organ like any other organ in the body. Although incredibly complex, it too can be diseased. This brain disease involves complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences including trauma.
Here is the good news! This is a treatable disease and it can be arrested. You and your loved ones can end the vicious cycle of addiction. Forget about the ignorance of others and the stigma out there and take action! You can do this! Be encouraged! Thousands upon thousands have recovered and you can too! There is help! There is Hope! If you or someone you love is struggling, I am here to help. Love and Light to you all!
