The Chatham-Kent Drug Awareness Council has launched a campaign across the community explaining that everything people know about addictions is wrong.
“Public opinion and media portrayals reinforce one another, and they contribute to and perpetuate the stigma associated with drugs and drug use,” Drug Awareness Council officials say.
“When we believe in old, outdated information around substance misuse, it undermines the response to the overdose crisis at every turn. This negatively impacts the lives of people and the ability to receive or access basic health care.”
Drug Awareness Council officials added: “Creating an environment where access to harm reduction, treatment and basic life needs will remove barriers facing the person who is misusing substances. By changing how we view people who use substances and how they access treatment can save thousands from dying from substance related deaths.”
Drug Awareness Council officials say people with substance use problems are up to three times more likely to have a mental illness.
“Understanding that substance misuse is usually seeded with a history of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a long list of other mental health barriers is the first step to supporting someone on their journey,” Drug Awareness Council officials say.
Negative judgments towards people who misuse substances create barriers for many who are trying to access important health care, social services, employment and so much more, Drug Awareness Council officials added.
“People who use substances deserve to know that they are equally worthy of dignity, respect and compassion as anyone else,” group officials say.
“Using language and actions that demoralizes and stigmatizes people around drug use can affect how people see themselves and how they are treated. Drug use is something you do, not an identity. Over time, the negativity weighs on people’s health and well-being. Shifting our language can lead to wider understanding around substance misuse, and support of life-saving interventions.”
Drug Awareness Council officials say treatment services and supports can help people experiencing harms from substance use or addiction.
“Our message this week has been educate about the barriers that can prevent a person from accessing services and even prevent them from getting lifesaving help during substance use,” Drug Awareness Council officials say.
“A person who is misusing substances is just that – a person. We all have the right to basic human services. This is a complex issue that needs a collaborative community approach. We can all start by educating ourselves and each other. People who use substances are people too and deserve the same things you do.”
Visit www.ckdac.ca for resources located in the community.
– This story is sponsored content.
