Changing How We Talk About Substance Use

The language we use has a direct and profound impact on those around us. The negative impacts of stigma can be reduced by changing the language we use about substance use.

TWO KEY PRINCIPLES INCLUDE:

• Using neutral, medically accurate terminology when describing substance use
• Using “people-first” language, that focuses first on the individual or individuals, not the action (e.g. “people who use drugs”)

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