Stigma and Addiction

Common substances that are addictive include: 

• Alcohol 

• Nicotine 

• Cannabis 

• Prescription pain medications 

• Prescription sleep medications 

• Methamphetamine 

• Opioids 

• Cocaine 

Common behaviours that are addictive include: 

• Gaming 

• Shopping 

• Sex 

• Work 

• Exercise 

• Food 

• Social Media 

Addiction and the Brain

Dopamine is also released when using substances, or engaging in activities like shopping, gambling, or having sex. But instead of motivating you to do the things you need to do to survive like eating, your brain associates the feelings of pleasure with substance use, or activities and drives you seek out those things again in the future.   

When a person develops an addiction to a substance or behaviour, it’s because the brain has started to change. Over time the brain’s circuits adapt and less dopamine is released, creating tolerance. Achieving that pleasurable sensation becomes increasingly important, other activities no longer provide the same level of enjoyment, and more of the substance or behaviour is needed to make up for the reduced amount of dopamine that’s released. In other words, more of the substance or behaviour is needed to feel good again.  

Symptoms of Addiction 

• Intense cravings that affect the ability to think about other things 

• Spending a lot of time trying to get substances or engaging in a behaviour and much less time on previously enjoyed activities 

• Having difficulty with relationships 

• Avoiding responsibilities at home, work, and in the community 

• Feeling irritable or restless 

• Developing anxiety or depression, or withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using a substance or discontinue a behaviour 

What is stigma?  

Stigma is a set of negative attitudes, misconceptions, and stereotypes that someone forms about an individual or group because of the situation they face. Stigma often occurs through discriminatory attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours and is most apparent in stigmatizing words and labels used to shame individuals.  

Individuals may face different types of stigma: 

• Social stigma: This happens when family, friends or society looks down on people with addiction, labeling them as weak or irresponsible. They may experience harassment, violence and bullying leading to isolation and rejection.  

• Self-perceived stigma: Sometimes, people living with addiction believe the negative things others say about them. They may feel ashamed or unworthy, or have low-esteem and fear treatment because of the judgement or discrimination they may face. All of which makes it harder to ask for help. 

• Structural stigma: This type of stigma is built into systems and policies, like limited access to treatment or laws that focus on punishment instead of support. It also includes the discrimination, lack of support, or lower quality of care in healthcare and social services settings and workplaces. Individuals may have difficulty finding work or housing.   

Stigma can impact the health and well-being of people with addiction issues, as it’s often an obstacle for seeking treatment, increasing the risk of mortality due to delayed treatment. It can also affect their family and friends, who may face judgment or discrimination because of their association.  

Society’s Mixed Messages 

Not all addictions are treated the same. Some, like workaholism, are even praised. Working long hours is often seen as dedication, even though it can harm mental and physical health and leave relationships in ruins. Social media addiction is normalized, with endless scrolling seen as a typical part of life. 

On the flip side, substance addictions—especially involving illegal drugs—are harshly judged. For example, people with opioid addiction are often treated as criminals rather than individuals needing care. These double standards show how little society understand addiction as a whole. 

Breaking the Stigma 

One of the most effective ways to reduce stigma involves changing the language used around addiction. Breaking the stigma around addiction takes effort, but each change matters.

1. Learn and Share: Understand how addiction works can replace judgment with empathy. Share what you know about the neurological and psychological aspects of addiction to challenge stereotypes and shift perceptions from blame to empathy.  

2. Language: Avoid using negative labels and instead use person-first language, such as "a person with a substance use disorder." This focuses on the person, not their condition.  

3. Support Fair Policies: Advocate for laws and programs that focus on treatment and recovery instead of punishment instead of punitive measures.  

4. Celebrate Recovery Stories: Highlight and share stories of recovery and resilience and success of those who overcome addiction to inspire hope and challenge stereotypes.  

Getting Help for Addiction 

Addiction is a condition, not a character flaw. If you or someone you know is experiencing addiction, seeking help is an important step. There are various options including:  

• Individual counselling. One on one sessions with a counsellor to talk about challenges, learn new coping skills, and create a plan for recovery.    

• Relapse prevention. Methods to identify triggers and manage cravings. For example, if stress is a trigger, a person might practice deep breathing, go for a walk, or avoid places where they have previously used substances or engaged in addictive behaviours. 

• Community resources. Getting connected with local support, faith-based, or peer groups can help strengthen your recovery.   

• Referral to detox or residential programs when needed. If more support is needed, individuals can be referred to detox or treatment centers where they can recover in a safe, structured environment.   

• 12-step support groups. Join a group like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or SMART Recovery where people share their experiences and support each other on the recovery journey.  

If substance use is affecting your life or someone else’s, help is available. Speak to your doctor, a qualified professional, or local community support organizations to explore your options. You can also reach out to your Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for guidance and resources. You don’t have to go through this alone.   

 If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose and their life is at risk, call 911 or get them to emergency services right away.