Language of Stigma

1. Language of Stigma Roxanne Baker, CMA National Alliance for Medication Assisted Recovery

2. Language • Demeaning language can be a form of self-disrespect to one’s self. • It is important for patients to learn to use the right language to respect oneself and the medication that saved their life.

3. Words Can Hurt!

4. When professionals use the wrong words it is like speaking down to a patient, and treating them like a child. • Interferes with the patients Recovery, which is not always total Abstinence. • Just as individual as we are. No High Dose, No Low Dose, Only RIGHT Dose!

5. FEAR!!! Fear is instilled in about 80% of patients everywhere because they feel unsure of themselves and what is expected of them.

6. Methadone is confusing with many regulations and very often the confusion of staff is passed on unconsciously to the patient. • Sometimes it happens because of ignorance staff believe that what they were told is a Regulation. • Using the Regulations to resolve an issue leaves no room for discussion or a meeting of the minds which is what treatment should be about.

7. Education • Educated patients understand their treatment and therefore become more self assured and accepting of their Recovery. • Patients become capable educators passing on knowledge to others who are ignorant and helping to stamp out Stigma!

8. Knowledge Empowers Patients! The Patient is Always Most Important Person!