Put an end to stigma of addiction

To the editor:

It is important that we as a community continue to make efforts to practice good health, both physically and mentally.

Unfortunately, for those experiencing mental illness and addiction, this is sometimes challenging. Often people feel ashamed of their illnesses and have difficulty asking for help.

As a community, you can make a difference. 

It is important to understand that one in five adults in America experience mental illness. In addition, 10.2 million Americans have co-occurring disorders, meaning both mental illness and substance use disorders. In the 2016, more people died from a substance use disorder then during the entire Vietnam War. 

If these issues are so prevalent, it begs the question, what can be done to help? One part of the solution is to reduce the stigma that prevents those with those experiencing a mental health issue and/or substance use disorder from seeking help.  

Stigma by definition is “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.” If this is the case, and experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder is a “mark of disgrace,” why would anyone feel inclined to ask for help? 

We have to do better as a community to recognize the magnitude of these issues, educate ourselves and become part of the solution. The words that we use when discussing mental illness and substance use disorder can often be stigmatizing and degrading. While it may seem unimportant, it can become a barrier to treatment. 

So what can you do to be part of the solution?

I’m so glad you asked!

Educate yourself on mental illness and substance use disorder. When you speak to or about someone experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder be aware of the words you use. Refrain from using works that are degrading, judgmental, negative or downright hostile.

While it is everyone’s right to have free speech, there are times when what you say can be more damaging to the situation.

I am by no way asking you to turn a blind eye to illegal activity or support behaviors which you disagree with. I am also not suggesting that it is best to stand by, watching our citizens suffer, in silence.

Instead, I would challenge you to be intentional, honest and compassionate when you encounter someone who may be experiencing these issues. In my experience, people tend to respond much better when they feel respected. In reality, individuals are much more likely to be receptive to support and ideas when they know they are not being judged.  

I ask this of you as a person who works everyday with these individuals, many of whom are afraid, hopeless and feeling worthless and ashamed.

They are more than their diagnosis or disorder. They are our children, parents, siblings, neighbors, spouse, or friends.  When they suffer, we all suffer.

Each person who experiences these issues in isolation, feeling stigmatized and judged, may feel that they are not worth saving or helping. I ask that you consider this, if you are not willing to help someone with a mental health or substance use disorder, that at least you don’t hurt them. 

Those of you wishing to be part of the solution, help share information on resources, participate in local groups such as Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition and support the individuals and organizations working with those experiencing these issues. As a community, we can make a difference. 

Anne Frank said, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Now is the time, you are the person, and your words and attitudes can make a difference. Let’s put an end to the stigma associated with mental illness and substance use disorder. 

Jennifer VanSkyock

Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition