Narratives about substance use and stigma

People who use drugs are often looked at in a negative way because of their substance use. They may feel judged, shamed and devalued by society. People who use drugs are often stereotyped which can lead to them being blamed and socially excluded. 

This can lead to isolation and feelings of shame and hopelessness. The stigma associated with substance use may stop a young person from accessing services or talking openly with family members about their substance use. Family members may also experience stigma when they have a loved one who is using substances.  

Research tells us that approaching substance use with punishment and abstinence from substances is unhelpful for people using substances. It is also ineffectual in attempting to encourage people to cease using.  Simply highlighting a primary message that ‘drugs are bad’ may leave young people who dabble in drug use unprepared to keep themselves safe. Similarly, if we only talk about the bad things that come with drug or alcohol use we run the risk of losing credibility with the young person who may have already tried a substance or know others that have and who have had no apparent adverse effect. 

For those young people who haven’t tried a drug yet it can also be counterproductive. Scare tactics can glamorise substance use for young people naturally interested in risk-taking. Unbalanced information also discourages the development of informed decision-making, a necessary skill in adulthood. 

It is useful to have discussions with young people about the “desired effects” or why they may like or enjoy using drugs. Despite the fears of many parents, this approach doesn’t encourage drug use but helps promote open communication and an environment where a young person can seek help and support if they need it.