What you need to know: August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness about the global overdose crisis. This day honors those who have lost their lives to overdose and acknowledges the grief of families and friends left behind. It’s also a time to focus on reducing the stigma that surrounds overdose and addiction.
Why it matters: Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to people seeking help for addiction. When we talk about overdose without judgment, we create a safer environment for those who need support. This can lead to more people accessing addiction recovery programs, which are crucial for saving lives.
Understanding Stigma
Stigma often comes from a lack of understanding about addiction. People may judge those who struggle with addiction as weak or immoral, but addiction is a complex health condition. When we stigmatize those affected, we make it harder for them to ask for help. This not only harms individuals but also impacts entire communities.
Ending Stigma to Save Lives
To truly combat the overdose crisis, we must change how we talk about addiction. Using non-stigmatizing language, offering support without judgment and educating others about addiction as a health issue can make a significant difference. By reducing stigma, we encourage more people to seek help through substance use treatment programs, which can be life changing.
The Role of Addiction Recovery Programs
Addiction recovery programs provide essential services to those battling addiction. These programs offer a path to healing and support individuals in their journey to recovery. When stigma is reduced, more people feel comfortable accessing these vital resources, ultimately leading to healthier communities.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, Citizen Advocates is here to help. Learn more about addiction recovery programs at Citizen Advocates.
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