Words Matter: Decreasing Stigma While Caring For Pregnant People with Substance Use-8.31.23 Webinar Slides

8.31.23 Webinar Slides

Pdf Summary

The document titled "Why Words Matter" discusses the concept of stigma and its impact on individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), particularly opioid use disorder (OUD). Stigma refers to discrimination against a specific group or individual, often accompanied by negative stereotypes. There are various types of stigma, including public stigma, anticipated stigma, internalized stigma, courtesy stigma, enacted stigma, and structural stigma. These types of stigma are interrelated and lead to poorer health outcomes for patients with OUD.<br /><br />The document emphasizes the intersectionality of stigma, where individuals may experience multiple stigmas that are overlapping and synergistic, such as gender, race, and parenting. It also highlights the importance of assessing our own biases and avoiding stigmatizing language when discussing addiction, suggesting the use of person-first language to maintain the integrity of individuals as whole human beings.<br /><br />The negative effects of stigma on patients with OUD are outlined, including social isolation, decreased willingness to seek treatment, and influences on provider perceptions that impact care. Media representation and underinvestment in addiction treatment infrastructure further contribute to public stigma and discrimination.<br /><br />The document suggests a strength-based approach to documenting patient encounters, focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses. It also challenges misconceptions about OUD and emphasizes that it is a chronic medical condition that requires medical treatment.<br /><br />To combat stigma and provide better care for patients with SUD, the document recommends awareness of stigma and available resources, patient-centered care and language, appropriate assessment and treatment, clear communication about screening and testing policies, and strength-based documentation. It also introduces the Maryland Addiction Consultation Service (MACS) for Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOMs), which provides support to maternal health providers in addressing the needs of pregnant and postpartum patients with SUD.<br /><br />Overall, the document highlights the significance of the words we use when discussing addiction and the importance of combating stigma to provide better care and support for individuals with SUD.

Keywords

stigma

substance use disorder

opioid use disorder

types of stigma

intersectionality of stigma

person-first language

negative effects of stigma

media representation

addiction treatment infrastructure

strength-based approach