Resident Code of Conduct: Bias and Stigma

Also, in your code of conduct, consider using terms that DO NOT promote bias.

Substance use disorder is one of the most stigmatized conditions. The person diagnosed with SUD is stigmatized, but also the disease and the recovery home is stigmatized. Stigma is a huge barrier to recovery.

Watch this seven-minute YouTube video from Yale University: How do you talk about addiction? Stigma & Language.

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Consider non-stigmatizing language that does not promote inherited cultural bias, such as:

• “Person in recovery” instead of “addict or former addict”
• “Harmful use” instead of “abuse”
• “Substance free / not substance free” instead of “clean / dirty”