Nearly two-thirds of prison and jail inmates have a substance use disorder (SUD),^1,2 and these individuals’ risk of opioid overdose after being released is 10 times higher than that of the general public.³ Despite the high prevalence of SUD in justice-involved individuals, many justice practitioners do not understand the science behind SUDs or the many treatment options available. This lack of understanding can lead to stigma toward individuals who have an SUD and are involved in the justice system. Individuals with SUD who experience stigma are more likely to continue engaging in substance use, delay access to treatment, and drop out of treatment at higher rates.⁴ A review of National Survey on Drug Use and Health data found that nearly 30 percent of individuals in need of treatment reported that stigma kept them from pursuing addiction treatment.⁵

Visit the topics below for information about how criminal justice agencies can reduce stigma within their agencies, among their stakeholders, and in the community. The below pages provide a curated collection of resources meant to provide information about the realities of SUD and available treatment options to help decrease stigma and further assist individuals on their paths to recovery.