Preferred language for talking about drug use:
Instead of . . . | Use . . . | Why |
Addict User Junkie Drug abuser Tweaker | Person who uses drugs | Not all people who use are addicted or have a substance use disorder Using a label can have negative consequences People should not be defined by one choice or behavior. |
Former addict or Reformed addict
| Person in recovery or long-term recovery Person who previously used drugs | Not all persons who have previously used drugs may have been addicted Using the term addict has a negative connotation about one’s self control |
Abuse | For illicit drugs:
For prescription medications:
| Using the term abuse implies a choice to misuse |
Clean / Sober |
| Using the word clean implies that the person was previously dirty. |
Dirty | Person who uses drugs | A person’s hygiene or cleanliness is not related to their drug use. Calling people who use drugs “dirty” further stigmatizes drug use. |
Addicted baby |
| Using a label can hinder the baby’s care. |
Relapse, Slip, lapse |
| Relapse, or a slip can evoke a perception of failure or set back rather than a normal part of recovery. |
Habit |
| The word habit implies that people are making a decision to use drugs and can make an easy decision to stop. The word habit downplays the complexity of substance use and dependence. |
Drug replacement therapy |
| Drug “replacement” therapy implies that a person is replacing one “addiction” for another and further stigmatizes people seeking support. |
Stigma at any of these levels might lead to a person not getting the care they need.
- Individual Level: This is how people think, feel, and act when they face stigma. It includes things like keeping secrets about their health, feeling bad about themselves, and being aware of how others see them.
- Interpersonal Level: People treating others unfairly because of their health condition. They may show lack of respect, make them feel less important, and treat them like they are not fully human.
- Structural Level: This is about the big picture—how society and rules affect people with health issues. This can limit their opportunities or resources, making life harder for them.
