Substance use is a normal part of human life. This fact makes it difficult to recognize when use turns into abuse. Substance use is the act of consuming drugs or alcohol. When substance use becomes abuse it can be difficult to discuss. Substance abuse also called substance use disorder (SUD) refers to the excessive use of drugs and alcohol that has negative consequences on our health and social lives. The widespread use of substances can lead to the assumption that use can be effectively handled without outside intervention.
Substance use disorder is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. Unfortunately, those who struggle continue to be hidden behind stigma, shame, and silence. In 2023, around 54.2 million people over the age of 12 needed treatment for a substance use disorder. Only 23% of those individuals received treatement. Behind these numbers are real people—friends, family members, and coworkers—who are often suffering in isolation. It’s time to break the silence and change the narrative.
Why We Stay Silent
The silence around SUD stems from a deeply rooted stigma. Society has long viewed addiction as a moral failing or a lack of willpower, rather than a chronic and treatable medical condition. Words like “addict” or “junkie” continue stereotypes and prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. Many fear judgment, rejection, or discrimination, leading them to hide their struggles, even from those closest to them.
Family members and loved ones often remain quiet as well, out of fear of embarrassment or uncertainty about how to help. This culture of silence not only isolates those with SUD but also delays crucial interventions that could save lives.
The Cost of Silence
The consequences of silence are devastating. People with untreated SUD face higher risks of overdose, mental health challenges, unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration. Families are torn apart, communities are strained, and the economy bears an immense burden. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, substance abuse costs the U.S. over $510 billion annually in healthcare, lost productivity, and criminal justice expenses.
The greatest loss is of the unique contributions we all make to society. Every person battling SUD has dreams, talents, and aspirations that often go unrealized because of stigma and lack of support.
Breaking the Silence: What Can We Do?
1. Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding SUD as a medical condition, not a moral failing, is the first step toward breaking the stigma. Addiction alters brain chemistry, making it incredibly challenging to overcome without proper treatment and support. Sharing this knowledge can help shift perspectives within your circles.
2. Choose Language Carefully
Words matter. Replace terms like “addict” with “person with a substance use disorder.” This person-first language emphasizes the individual’s humanity and separates their identity from their condition.
3. Share Stories
Personal stories have the power to dismantle stereotypes and build empathy. Whether you’re in recovery, know someone who is, or have lost someone to SUD, sharing your experience can inspire others to speak out and seek help.
4. Be a Safe Space
Let people in your life know they can talk to you without fear of judgment. Sometimes, the simple act of listening can be a turning point for someone struggling with SUD.
Call to Action
Breaking the silence around substance use disorder is not just an individual effort; it’s a collective responsibility. Together, we can create a society where seeking help is seen as an act of courage, not weakness. A society where people with SUD are treated with dignity and respect, and where recovery is celebrated, not hidden.
Let’s start the conversation today. Share this post. Educate yourself and others. Call Union EAP today 855-900-1915 to talk to a trained care coordinator who will point you in the right direction.