Research has shown that the words used to describe SUD and recovery have a significant impact on people who have an SUD and how they are treated.¹ Commonly used terms referring to people with addiction often reflect the misconception that their drug use and related behaviors are a choice and that they are to blame for their medical condition. These types of stereotyping and negative biases can, in turn, lead people with SUD to avoid seeking medical help. For example, in 2021, more than 10 percent of people who felt they needed SUD treatment in the past year said they did not seek treatment because they feared attracting negative attitudes from their community.²

Criminal justice agencies and stakeholders can set an example and reduce stigma around SUD with simple changes in language. Using appropriate, nonstigmatizing language for individuals who come into contact with the justice system can help reduce biases and improve outcomes for individuals with SUD.³