Language matters

Language has a powerful impact on how we connect with others, especially when it comes to substance use and addiction. The words we use can either perpetuate stigma and shame or foster understanding and compassion. A simple shift in our every day vocabulary encourages empathy, supports recovery, and helps break down the stigma that keeps people from seeking help. Choosing respectful, non-judgmental language is a small but significant step towards making your someone who is struggling feel safe and heard.

Hover over the misused words below to see the language we should all be using.

Addict / Junkie / Drug User

Person who uses substances

Using "person-first" language emphasizes that someone’s identity is not solely defined by their disorder. This also aligns with a health-focused view of addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing.

Staying clean / staying sober

Maintaining recovery or abstaining from substance use

"Clean" implies that people using substances are dirty, which is a judgmental and stigmatizing way to frame their struggle. Instead, "in recovery" focuses on the positive steps a person is taking towards better health and well-being.

Drug abuser

Person who uses substances

"Abuser" suggests a criminal or morally wrong behaviour, reinforcing stigma. Instead, framing the person as someone who uses substances acknowledges the complexity of their situation without assigning blame.

Relapse

Return to use

"Relapse" carries negative connotations of failure or weakness. "Return to use" is more neutral and supports a non-judgmental approach to recovery, recognizing it as a process with ups and downs.

Substance abuse / Drug abuse

Substance use or problematic substance use

"Abuse" implies intentional harm or criminal behaviour, while "use" or "problematic use" focuses on the health impact and reduces moral judgment, encouraging a compassionate approach to treatment.

Alcoholic

Person with an alcohol use disorder

Labels like "alcoholic" define the person by their condition and perpetuate stigma. "Person with an alcohol use disorder" highlights that it’s a treatable condition and recognizes the individual beyond the disease.

Enabler

Support person or person providing support

"Enabler" places blame on individuals who are trying to help a loved one. Shifting the language to "support person" acknowledges their role without the negative connotations, supporting a more holistic view of care.

Drug habit

Substance use disorder

"Habit" downplays the serious, medical nature of addiction, making it sound like a choice rather than a disease. "Substance use disorder" reflects the clinical reality and promotes understanding of the condition as a health issue.

Rock bottom

Challenging moment or a point of struggle

"Rock bottom" implies that someone must hit an extreme low before seeking help. Recovery is different for everyone, and change can happen at any stage. Focusing on "challenging moments" emphasizes the potential for growth and transformation at any point.

Drug-seeking

"Person seeking pain relief" or "Person with unmanaged pain"

The term "drug-seeking" is often used to suggest manipulative or dishonest behaviour. Using "seeking pain relief" acknowledges that the person may be in distress and emphasizes the need to address underlying medical concerns without passing judgment.

Crackhead / Methhead / Pothead

Person who uses [substance] or Person with a [substance] use disorder

These derogatory terms are highly stigmatizing and dehumanizing. They frame the person as being defined by their substance use rather than as an individual with a complex life story.

Former addict

Person in recovery

While the term “former addict” still defines the person by their past substance use, “person in recovery” focuses on the positive, ongoing process of healing, emphasizing growth rather than past struggles.

Intervention

Supportive conversation or assistance in seeking treatment

"Intervention" can be associated with confrontational or punitive approaches, while "supportive conversation" frames the interaction as compassionate, focused on helping someone access care without pressure or blame.

Failed treatment / Treatment failure

Discontinued treatment or challenges in treatment

Using the term "failure" implies blame and can discourage individuals from continuing their recovery journey. Reframing it as "discontinued" or "challenges in treatment" removes judgment and acknowledges the complexities of treatment.