When a loved one is affected by a substance use disorder or mental illness, family caregivers eventually come face-to-face with stigma.

What is stigma?

Stigma is a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.

What to do?

Start by getting to know the offending words … and better alternatives. We found a great word list and resources to learn more at Families for Addiction Recovery: Stigma.