Shattering the Stigma and Shedding the Shame

Primary Presenter(s)

• • BF

    Brooke Feldman, MSW

    Trainer
    Substance Use Disorders Institute, Univ. of the Sciences

    Disclosure: CleanSlate Centers (Employment): Salary

Co-Presenter(s)

• 

  Gail Scott, MPH

  Graduate Researcher
  University of the Sciences

  Disclosure: Nothing to disclose

Stigma and shame serve as the top barriers to wellness and recovery. This presentation will provide historical context for the social stigma surrounding substance use in America and explain the negative impact of that stigma for individuals, families and communities. The roles of stigma and internalized shame will be explored in relation to drug policy, recovery advocacy, SUD prevention, harm reduction, SUD treatment and the many pathways to sustained wellness and/or long-term recovery. Handouts will include positive language guidelines that reflect the cultural differences of recovery communities.

Learning Objectives:

• Upon Completion: Participants will be able to describe the history of stigma surrounding substance use in America
• List three ways in which stigma and shame negatively impacts access to wellness and recovery
• Participants will be able to describe at least three strategies for shattering stigma and supporting others in shedding the shame