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<\/p>\nAddict shaming. This is one of the things people do without them realizing it. Or perhaps they may just be overwhelmed and frustrated by their loved one’s addiction. However, it doesn’t differ from other forms of shaming such as body shaming or slut shaming.<\/p>\n
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With media perpetuating the myths and stereotypes of addicts and addiction, addicts are indeed misunderstood. Hence, the addict shaming.<\/p>\n
However, contrary to popular belief, addiction is not a moral failing or a character flaw. Addicts are not selfish nor are they morally lacking. What they have is a disease, something that they are predisposed to even before they were born and is further contributed by many other factors that are beyond their control.<\/p>\n
In fact, addiction is a disease. Its clinical term is substance use disorder. Addict shaming is similar to shaming a person who has heart disease or cancer. While the addict’s condition is not as physically devastating as other diseases, and people might even say that addicts are enjoying what they’re doing, it is still unhealthy and even fatal.<\/p>\n
In fact, the American Society of Addiction Medicine describes addiction as a “primary, chronic disease of the brain reward, motivation, memory, and related circuitry.” The definition furthers”<\/p>\n
“Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and\/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.<\/p>\n
Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one\u2019s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Why Addict Shaming Doesn’t Work<\/strong><\/h3>\n
While it’s natural to be angry, disappointed, and frustrated with an addict, shaming them doesn’t help them. You also can’t shame them into changing or getting help. What addict shaming does is it diverts the issue from the person’s needs as the focus turns on the stereotypes build around it.<\/p>\n
Addict shaming also stops you from giving them the help they need. It stops you from reaching out to them, trying to understand them, and being there for them in a way that doesn’t condone or enable them. This is because when you addict shame, you immediately pass judgement on the person, a judgement which they may repeat on themselves.<\/p>\n
\nDo you have a family or loved one in need of addiction treatment? Call or text us at Bridges of Hope: 09175098826.<\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"