As our understanding of substance use disorders evolves, so does the language to describe them. Even the most compassionate people, from medical professionals to those with substance use disorders, sometimes use outdated and stigmatising language.
Being open and willing to adapt to new, respectful language will help reduce the stigma that people with substance use disorders experience.
Spenser Smith, associate editor of Vancouver Island University’s student press The Navigator, spoke with People First Media about his article, “How to talk about substance use” and his editorial, “Mac Miller, human being.”
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