Empowering families affected by substance use

Although different types of addiction treatment are available, many people with addictions do not get help because addiction carries a strong stigma. Stigma also affects the families of people with addiction, leading them to hide the problem or pretend it is not there. “Courtesy stigma” refers to negative attitudes about and treatment of people who are related to someone with a substance use problem. One way to reduce stigma is by breaking the secrecy and beginning to talk to others about your experiences having a relative with a substance use problem. It takes bravery to challenge stigma.