Stigmatization among drug-using sex workers accessing support services in Dublin

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Addiction Studies

Background:

• Stigma surrounding drug use and sex work significantly impacts individuals' health behaviors.
• Health professionals' language can reinforce stigma and deter individuals from seeking essential services.
• Dual stigma from drug use and sex work creates unique challenges for harm reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of drug users involved in sex work in Dublin.
• To understand how stigma, particularly from healthcare providers, affects their engagement with harm reduction.
• To provide recommendations for improving harm reduction interventions for this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with 35 individuals who were or had been engaged in both drug use and sex work.
• Analysis of interview data to identify themes related to stigma, shame, and healthcare interactions.
• Exploration of the impact of language used by health professionals.

Main Results:

• Participants reported hiding their drug use due to felt stigma and internalized shame, increasing personal risk.
• Multiple layers of stigma (drug use, sex work, HIV/HCV) were experienced.
• Language used by health professionals was identified as a significant reinforcing factor of stigma.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers should adopt person-centered language to acknowledge client dignity and reduce stigma.
• Modifying communication strategies can improve the engagement and retention of drug users in harm reduction services.
• Addressing stigma through language is crucial for reducing high mortality rates among drug users.