When people have conversations about drug abuse, the words that are used usually have a negative connotation. When negative words are used in reference to drug abuse, it can turn individuals off from getting the help they may need. Matt Ferner, a contributor writer for the Huffington Post says that there are ways you can change the conversation of drug abuse from negative to positive. The change that is made in these conversations is fairly simple by the way words are chosen. For example, instead of using the work "addict," you can say "person with a substance use disorder." Instead of using the words "former/reformed addict" you can say "person in recovery." Switching the negative words with more positive ones can make people feel more comfortable about getting the help they may need.
To learn more about changing the conversation about drug abuse, click here.