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Addiction & It's Stigma: What Do We Do About It?

  • Writer: Yaacov Rosedale
    Yaacov Rosedale
  • Aug 13
  • 2 min read


Understanding Addiction and Confronting Its Stigma


Addiction is a complex, chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences (American Psychiatric Association [APA], (2013). It is a disease that affects the brain's reward, motivation, memory, and related circuitry, leading to significant impairment in an individual's ability to control their substance use (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], (2020).

The nature of addiction extends beyond mere substance abuse. It can include behavioral addictions such as gambling, internet use, or shopping. These behaviors activate similar neural pathways as drugs, leading to comparable patterns of compulsive engagement (Yau & Potenza, 2015).


Addiction is often misunderstood, leading to significant stigma that can hinder treatment and recovery. Stigma refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors directed towards individuals with substance use disorders. This stigma can manifest in various ways:

  1. Social Stigma: Society often views addiction as a moral failing rather than a medical condition, leading to discrimination and social isolation (Corrigan et al., 2017).

  2. Structural Stigma: Policies and institutional practices may limit opportunities for individuals with addiction, such as employment or housing discrimination (Link & Phelan, 2001).

  3. Self-Stigma: Individuals with addiction may internalize negative societal attitudes, leading to decreased self-esteem and self-efficacy (Livingston et al., 2012).


The stigma surrounding addiction can have severe consequences. It can prevent individuals from seeking treatment, lead to inadequate healthcare, and perpetuate cycles of addiction (Volkow et al., 2017). Moreover, stigma can exacerbate mental health issues often co-occurring with addiction, such as depression and anxiety.


Addressing the stigma of addiction is crucial for improving outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders. This involves:

  1. Education: Increasing public understanding of addiction as a brain disease rather than a moral failing (NIDA, 2020).

  2. Language: Using person-first language (e.g., "person with a substance use disorder" rather than "addict") to reduce stigmatizing attitudes (Kelly et al., 2016).

  3. Policy Changes: Implementing policies that treat addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal justice issue (Volkow, N. D. et al., 2017).

  4. Media Representation: Encouraging responsible media portrayal of addiction and recovery stories (McGinty et al., 2016).


In conclusion, understanding addiction as a complex brain disorder and addressing the associated stigma are crucial steps in improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. By fostering a more compassionate and informed approach to addiction, we can create a society that better supports recovery and reduces the overall impact of this pervasive health issue.



If this resonates with you or someone you love, reach out. I’m here to help.

—Dr. Yaacov Rosedale, LPC, PhD, CASAP

yaacovmr@gmail.com   | +972-52-8084406  | 513-599-6700


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