Opioid Resources
Stigma
What is Stigma?
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Stigma is defined as a set of negative beliefs that a group or society holds about a group of people or people who demonstrate a particular behavior. Stigma is a major cause of discrimination and exclusion and it contributes to the abuse of human rights. 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.
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Stigma can result in prejudice, avoidance, rejection, and discrimination against people who have a socially undesirable trait or engage in culturally marginalized behaviors, such as drug use (Link, 2001).
References: World Health Organization and Link (2001)
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Reducing the Harm of Substance Use Disorder Stigma
Anyone—regardless of age, background, or where they live—can be at risk for developing a substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is a treatable, chronic condition marked by patterns of substance use that cause significant distress or problems in daily life, including at work, school, or home.
In 2022, nearly 49 million people in the U.S. ages 12 and older reported experiencing an SUD. Addressing stigma is essential to helping individuals access care, feel supported, and begin their recovery journey.
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The Power of Education and Awareness
Understanding prevention and treatment options can change lives. Prevention starts with limiting exposure to substances and increasing awareness of healthier alternatives. For individuals and families seeking help, SAMHSA’s National Helpline offers free, confidential support 24/7.
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Advancing Health Equity in Overdose Prevention
Social factors—like housing, income, and access to healthcare—can deeply influence a person’s risk and recovery from SUD. Communities of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with mental illness often face greater barriers. Focusing on equity is key to reducing these disparities and preventing overdose deaths.
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Supporting Treatment and Recovery Pathways
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Treatment may involve medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination, and may take place in outpatient or inpatient settings depending on individual needs. Regardless of the path, consistent, stigma-free support is essential. Everyone deserves access to care that meets them where they are.
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Using a People-First Approach
A person is more than their substance use. Taking a whole-person view—recognizing their roles, interests, and values—can help reduce stigma and create space for healing. By seeing the individual, not just the disorder, we can offer support that truly fits their needs.
There are many resources and people ready to help. Compassionate conversations rooted in understanding can empower recovery, restore hope, and strengthen communities.
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Language Matters
Person-first language maintains the integrity of individuals as whole human beings—by removing language that equates a person to their condition or has negative connotations.
For example, “person with a substance use disorder” has a neutral tone and distinguishes the person from his or her diagnosis.
A person with a substance use disorder.
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Druggie, Junkie, Substance Abuser
Substance use disorder is a treatable health condition
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Substance use disorder is a failure of morals or willpower
Harm reduction is a recovery pathway
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Recovery = absinence
Recovery is a process
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Relapse is to be expected
There are multiple pathways to recovery
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Recover looks the same to everyone
Individuals self-identify as being in recovery
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Excluding anyone who wants to be in recovery
There is hope
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A person has not hit rock bottom
Harm Reduction
Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach that is critical to engaging with people who use drugs and equipping them with life-saving tools and information to create positive change in their lives and potentially save their lives.
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Medication Drop Boxes
Safe storage and disposal of prescription drugs is a key component of prevention of substance use disorder. Click here to view a map of Medication collection boxes, or drop boxes, are located in the towns and cities. Locations include police departments and pharmacies.
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Drop boxes located at police departments or trooper barracks are secured in the lobby and are available anytime the department is open. No questions asked, just drop the unwanted medications in the drop box and they will be safely and securely destroyed.
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Cannabis Lock Bags
Make your home a safe environment where children cannot access cannabis products in any form. Safe storage can help lower the risk of accidental ingestion.
Order your Cannabis Lock Bags here
Medication Lock Boxes
Keep your medications safe at home! Safely store prescription and over-the-counter medications to keep them out of the hands of children and vulnerable populations.
Order your Medication Lock Boxes here
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Medication Disposal
Unused prescription drugs pose a risk of misuse and accidental poisoning, but improper disposal can harm the environment and contaminate our water supply. Deterra Pouches are a convenient, environmentally sound option for proper drug disposal right at home.
Order Deterra pouches here
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Preventing an Overdose
Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach that is critical to engaging with people who use drugs and equipping them with life-saving tools and information to create positive change in their lives and potentially save their lives.
Naloxone, or the brand name Narcan, is a medication designed to reverse an opioid overdose. It is safe to use and anyone can obtain it at their local pharmacy. Visit drugfreect.org for more information and to locate a pharmacy near you. The FDA has approved Narcan for over the counter sales. To learn more click here
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Western CT Coalition offers monthly Narcan Training Webinars. Learn about the overdose epidemic, how to recognize the signs of an overdose, and how to obtain and administer Narcan. We are also able to distribute it within the community.
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Visit our home page for our current dates.
Fentanyl Test Strips can be used by individuals to help identify whether fentanyl has been combined with another drug. Drug samples that test positive for fentanyl have a high risk of fatal overdose and should be immediately discarded
Additional Resources
NORA Saves
NORA is a free app from the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Use NORA to prevent, treat, and report opioid overdose.
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CADCA's "What's Trending"
where you can download fact sheets on: Counterfeit pills, Delta 8, Opioids, and more!
