Substance Abuse Stigma: Identifying and Eliminating Barriers in Recovery

Abstract

Recovery Centers of America in Danvers is an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center that offers different levels of care and treatment to those with a substance abuse disorder. Stigma surrounding substance abuse presents barriers to individuals seeking treatment and individuals in different stages of recovery. The purpose of this internship was to identify how patients perceived and experienced stigma. A group was run regarding stigma and at the end participants were asked to complete two surveys. Analysis was conducted on the information recorded, and the findings were presented to the clinical team on Unit 1. Clinicians reported that a deeper understanding of how stigma is perceived and experienced by their patients will allow them to better care for and support them in their recovery.