Stop the Drug Addiction Stigma

For years, I have heard from various people that addiction is a weakness, or “if he wanted to stop, he would.”  It is time that we end the drug addiction stigma on a person I have met who wants to be in the situation they are in. Chemical changes occur in the brain. Whether it is using alcohol or drugs. The pleasure/reward centre activates.   I would say it overactivates. Abusing alcohol or drugs creates powerful cravings and a compulsion to use. Once stuck in this addiction cycle, it may seem impossible to stop. According to the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, “addiction is not a choice, it is a complex health condition.”  Thus, treating addiction needs a multitude of recovery solutions. Although recovery may seem impossible, no matter how hopeless you feel, you can achieve sobriety.

Public stigma about drug addiction

I respect everyone’s opinion and believe they are all valid. What I don’t agree with is when opinions aren’t backed by evidence.  he idea that addiction is a moral dilemma, which is accompanied by shame, is a step back into the past. Science has come a long way, as has the understanding of mental health.  Until otherwise proven,  we need to treat addiction as such. Creating a new ground for love and understanding allows a more human way to treat those afflicted. The self-shame that we hold, coupled with our view of society’s public shame, keeps most suffering from addiction in a dark place.

Addiction can happen to anyone.

No one is exempt from the horrors of addiction. This disease plays no favourites. According to science, it is a combination of biology and environment. Being exposed to traumatic events significantly increases the possibility of addiction occurring. Thus, dealing with addiction with shame or guilt will push one further away. Finding a qualified addiction counsellor is crucial to starting the recovery journey. Having an experienced counsellor help map out a drug recovery treatment plan will significantly increase the chance of long-term sobriety. You can be a part of ending the drug addiction stigma.

Taking the step to recover from addiction

Realizing that you have a problem and taking the first step to recovery will be one of the hardest things to do.  Fortunately, millions of people have done it before. Realizing that this is not a solo mission gives the once-hopeless person newfound hope to relate to others and not feel alone, which is a breath of fresh air.  Nonedy has the answer to addiction, but we have solutions to treat addiction. When you can begin to believe in yourself, you have begun to start your own drug addiction stigma.

Recovery services and treatment options are at an all-time high. There is no reason for anyone to suffer from the disease of addiction. It is normal to feel conflicted about giving up your drug of choice.  Regardless of all the problems it creates, we can get stuck in the twisted comfort of it. Give yourself a chance and try something different. You can always go back if the alternative is not more appealing, but I assure you that you will love your new life.