Stigmatizing imagery for substance use disorders: a qualitative exploration.

Area of Science:

• Addiction research
• Qualitative health research
• Stigma studies

Background:

• Stigma surrounding substance use disorders (SUD) hinders treatment access.
• Previous efforts focused on language, but the impact of stigmatizing imagery is under-researched.
• Qualitative research is needed to identify both harmful and helpful imagery in SUD contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify stigmatizing and non-stigmatizing imagery related to SUD.
• To explore the reactions of individuals with lived experience of SUD to various imagery.
• To inform the development of appropriate visual content for SUD-related fields.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing focus groups and semi-structured interviews.
• Involved 14 individuals with lived experience in recovery from diverse SUDs.
• Analysis focused on identifying and categorizing imagery and participant responses.

Main Results:

• Participants identified negative, stigmatizing images related to substance use and criminal justice.
• Alternative, non-stigmatizing images were proposed and endorsed.
• Imagery-induced triggering and cue reactivity emerged as significant concerns, alongside a need for diverse representation.

Conclusions:

• Findings guide the selection of appropriate imagery for depicting addiction and individuals with SUD across research, media, and public health.
• Imagery depicting drug use, paraphernalia, or incarceration is inappropriate due to triggering potential.
• Emphasis on diverse and respectful representation of individuals and clinicians is crucial.