A recent article published by Psychology Today and authored by Dr. Jenna Butner discussed how language can contribute to the stigma existing around substance use disorders (SUD), and the potential impact in changing terminology for improving access to treatment, quality of care, and social attitudes toward people with addiction.

According to recent data, in 2024, an estimated 48.4 million Americans aged 12 years and older (16.8%) had a substance use disorder, including alcohol and drug use disorders at similar rates. Despite this high prevalence, only 19% received any treatment, and just 2.5% of individuals with alcohol use disorder received evidence-based medication treatment. Furthermore, research shows that decades-long stigma and antiquated approaches in addiction care can lead to worse outcomes of affected individuals, as well as their families, healthcare providers, and even negatively impact research, policy, and society.

“When the DSM-5 was published in 2013, much of the archaic diagnostic verbiage was removed, such as ‘substance abuse,’ and ‘dependence,’ consolidating it into substance use disorder, which helps medicalize the condition, and not frame it as a choice or moral failing (even the diagnostic criteria of ‘legal problems,’ was removed),” wrote Dr. Butner. However, she also noted that stigmatizing language about addictive disorders remains pervasive across social media and mainstream news, contributing to ongoing harm, and its impact may be amplified by AI systems trained on medical records and published media that reflect these biases.

Furthermore, Dr. Butner suggested that stigma could be overcome by changing the way we talk to people with SUD or at-risk use, as well as using non-stigmatizing and accurate language. She also highlighted the importance of creating an empathic and trusting environment, as well as using person-centered language. “Through education, dialogue and media platforms, it all starts with human connection and interaction. If we each commit to changing the words we use, we change the stories we tell — and ultimately, the way our society treats those affected by addiction,” Dr. Butner concluded. “When teaching, I often get asked by medical students what they can do to help shift the pendulum of stigma in addiction care. My answer remains the same, always: ‘Lead by example.’”