End Substance Use Disorder Endorses the STOP Stigma Act

Today, End Substance Use Disorder endorsed the Stopping Titles That Overtly Perpetuate (STOP) Stigma Act (H.R. 4244). The bipartisan bill, introduced by Representatives David Trone (D-MD) and Lisa McClain (R-MI), would change the names of federal agencies and programs to adopt stigma-free language.

“Substance use disorder affects nearly every household. People and families struggling with the condition should be able to access support without facing stigma or shame,” said Erin Schanning, president of End Substance Use Disorder. “Stigma kills. It restricts access to prevention, treatment, and recovery solutions that can save countless lives. The federal agencies that are leading the nation’s response to a dire and worsening substance use disorder crisis must use all tools available to open access to care. One of those tools is language that encourages people with substance use disorder to access the help they need to heal.”

Several federal agencies and programs use outdated language that stigmatizes people with substance use disorder and the condition. Terms like “substance abuse” suggest that individuals who have substance use disorder - a preventable and treatable medical condition - are to blame for their condition and are not worthy of treatment. Research has shown that medical providers who use stigmatizing terms provide lower quality care and people with substance use disorder are less likely to access treatment for any health care need when they feel stigmatized.

End Substance Use Disorder suggests the following guidelines for adopting stigma-free language: