There can be a stigma around substance use disorder.
Using inclusive language helps reduce the stigma by countering negative perceptions the public has towards people in recovery, said Frank Allison, program coordinator of Recovery Initiatives for the Carolina Recovery Program.
“For too long, people on the outside of the recovery community have defined what recovery is and what it isn’t,” said Shane Phillips, a member of the Carolina Recovery Group. “The stigma and the moralization of this problem prevents people from getting the treatment that they need.”
As an ally or as someone in recovery, inclusive language allows you to control the narrative in a more positive way.
Here are some examples of inclusive language of recovery:
Instead of... | Try... |
Treatment is the goal or only way into recovery | Treatment is an opportunity for initiation into recovery (one of multiple pathways into recovery) |
Substance Abuse | Substance use Disorder / Substance misuse |
Drug of Choice/Abuse | Drug of Use |
Denial | Ambivalence |
Relapse Prevention | Recovery Management |
Pathology Based Assessment | Strength / Asset Based Assessment |
Focus is on total abstinence from all illicit and non-prescribed substances the CLINICIAN identifies | Focus on the drug the CLIENT feels is creating the problems |
A drug is a drug | Each illicit substance has unique interactions with the brain; medication if available is appropriate |
Relapse | Return to use |
Relapse is part of recovery | Return to use may occur as part of the disease |
Clean / Sober | Drug Free / Free from Illicit and non-prescribed medications |
Self-Help Group | Mutual Aid Group |
Untreated alcoholic / Addict | Individual not yet in recovery |
Drug Overdose | Drug Poisoning |
No one should feel alone when going through recovery. These tips will help you be a friend and an ally. If you have questions, or would like to talk to someone about how to support someone in recovery, contact the Carolina Recovery Group for more information.
Come on out!
Show your support for students in recovery by attending the film screening of the film The Anonymous People at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20. The screening will be followed by a student panel.
Recovery Awareness Month
Wellness Wednesday Wellness Carnival: Sept. 7, Noon to 1:30 p.m. “I Support Recovery Day,” The Pit. Come out and show your support for persons in Recovery, Fun Games and Prizes!
Rally for Recovery: Sept. 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Moore Square in Raleigh.
Coffee and Donut Giveaway by Carolina Recovery Student Group: Sept. 19, 7:30 to 10 a.m., in front of Lenoir. Drop by and get a free cup of coffee and a donut on your way to class!
"The Anonymous People" film screening and panel: Sept. 20, 6 to 8 p.m., the Union Auditorium, movie followed by student panel, free popcorn!!!
