Words Matter: Preferred Language for Talking About Addiction

The National Institute on Drug Abuse developed this 2021 article. The article tells how to reduce harmful stigma and negativity around substance use disorder by making simple changes in language. It includes a table that lists terms to use, terms to avoid, and why. The article is also available in Spanish.


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#SubstanceUseDisorder
Public Health
Topic
Substance Use Disorder
Audience
Health Care Professionals, Community-Based and Social Service Professionals, Communication and Plain-Language Professionals
Setting
Behavioral Health and Substance-Use Settings
Level
Applied