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And so the stigma is continued by comments like Robert's.

Stigma is defined as a set of negative beliefs that a group or society holds about a group of people. Stigma is a major cause of discrimination. When a person experiences stigma they are seen as less than because of their real or perceived health status. Stigma is rarely based on facts but rather on assumptions, preconceptions, and generalizations; therefore, its negative impact can be prevented or lessened through education. Stigma results in prejudice, avoidance, rejection, and discrimination against people who have a socially undesirable trait or engage in culturally marginalized behaviors, such as drug use.

Family, friends and the public can carry negative feelings about drug use or behavior. They may even use derogatory terms such as “junkie,” “alcoholic,” or “crackhead.” (or blame liberalism lol) These thoughts, feelings, and labels can create and perpetuate stigma.

Perceived stigma can cause major harm to people in their social lives. The chronic stress of discrimination may affect the mental and social health of individuals who use drugs. People who use drugs can feel pushed to the outskirts of society and may lose touch with their community and family and experience profound loneliness and isolation.

When a person does not have social ties or a person to talk to, they are less likely to reach out for treatment. They are more likely to be depressed and may hide their drug use from health care providers to avoid stigma and drug shaming. The mental health consequences of isolation can fuel even more drug use, leading to further isolation, and ultimately a vicious cycle that is hard to be break out of.

So, let's try to help those struggling with a substance use disorder rather than shaming them. Help those who are ignorant learn more about substance use disorders and treatment.

Our families, communities and country will be better off when we work together to prevent and mitigate the effects of substance use rather than marginalize people.