Some people view issues surrounding addiction in a negative and unforgiving light. It’s important to remember that these people do not define you or your struggle. Part of moving past stigma is understanding that stigmatized views come predominantly from a lack of knowledge. When we move past stigma we begin to see ourselves beyond the limitations of others and can provide ourselves with more compassion.
What is Stigma?
To move past stigma, let’s first look at what it is. A stigma is a social construct in which people of certain backgrounds are seen as “bad.” Stigmas can apply to any group of people but are often directed in racial and socioeconomic ways. Oftentimes, stigma is the result of negative stereotyping and the two can go hand-in-hand. The important part of understanding both stigma and stereotypes is that they are rooted in generalizations made by individuals who lack knowledge and experience.
How Does Stigma Impact Me?
The stigma that exists around addiction can make it difficult to speak about your problems, seek help, and move on post-recovery. Finding help often means reaching out to others and if these people are affected by stigma they may reject or criticize you. Others may blame you for your addiction and refuse to help you. Even after recovering, having a history of addiction can impact the way that employers and new acquaintances may view you. Stigma not only impacts us in tangible ways but emotionally as well. Hearing and knowing the views that many people hold on addiction can cause feelings of guilt, self-loathing, and worthlessness.
What are the Stigma and Stereotypes Surrounding Addiction?
Unfortunately, many of the views held by the greater public surrounding addiction are based on false information and a lack of knowledge. Addicts are painted as failures and often characterized by violence and aggression. The addict portrayed in the media not only creates an offensive portrait of what some addicts may look like but also lumps all addicts together as one type of person. It’s also true that many believe that addiction is a choice and that quitting is as simple as deciding to. Because of this belief, people extend the fact that addicts don’t just simply stop being addicts into them choosing to harm themselves and those they love through their actions. However, the truth is that an addict can be any kind of person, that being an addict does not make you inherently bad or aggressive, and that quitting is no easy task—even if you want nothing more than to be sober.
How Can I Make it Past the Barrier of Stigma?
It can be hard if not impossible to completely avoid stigma. Accepting it as a part of our lives may be painful, but by doing so we are only stronger. Moving past stigma can look different for everyone and take on many forms. For some, maintaining a close circle of friends and family that you know and trust can create a sense of security and act as a shield against stigma. If the people and support you need are already at hand, the individuals who may ostracize you can do less harm. Others may be able to block out the negativity by reminding themselves where it comes from and what the reality truly is. Some may even take it into their own hands to correct and educate others when they express stigma. Always remember: addiction is not a choice, it’s a mental health condition that is beyond your control and requires treatment like any other illness.
Will Stigma Always be Around?
With the increasing accessibility of the internet, things like stigma and stereotypes are being slowly wiped out. It is now easier than ever for people to access accurate and factual information, including information on addiction. Studies about addiction, its causes, and how to treat it are being conducted every day to find better ways to address it. These studies not only help doctors find better ways to treat addiction but also provides others with knowledge about how addiction truly works. The internet also allows for real people who have experienced addiction to share their stories with huge audiences. Many people are far more receptive to experiences shared by real people rather than data collected by scientists. However, both are valid. By making information more accessible and allowing people to hear what addiction is really like, stigma is replaced by understanding.
Dealing with stigma and the criticism of others while trying to address your addiction can make it more difficult to reach sobriety and can harm your self-esteem. Remember, while some people may not understand your struggle, some do. At a treatment center, you can receive care and assistance from people who will listen to your needs and treat you with compassion. If you are ready to receive treatment in a welcoming and friendly environment, call Rancho Milagro at (951) 526-4582. Rancho Milagro provides both detox and inpatient care and is located in the secluded hills of Temecula, CA, ensuring that your treatment will be private and peaceful. We offer individualized care suited to your specific needs because we know that the path to recovery looks different for everyone. At Rancho Milagro, we treat the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Our treatment center is home to over 20 farm and therapy animals as well as miles of private hiking trails. We offer art therapy, nature therapy, massage therapy, and many other different services to aid in your recovery.