Stigma and Addiction

Experiencing stigma can deter individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) from pursuing necessary treatment.

 

Negative stereotypes associated with SUD often elicit feelings of pity, fear, and even anger from others. Furthermore, the terminology employed within the field remains outdated; terms such as "recovery" are still preferred over the more clinically appropriate "remission." Similarly, many treatment facilities continue to utilize the term "client" in place of "patient." 

 

It is not surprising, then, that numerous treatment centers are perceived as resembling institutionalized settings. This situation is inappropriate, irresponsible and calls for a reevaluation of the language and practices within the field.

In ICD-10-CM, mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use are categorized under codes F10-F19. 

Nowhere is the term client or recovery used, however, diagnosis and remission are.
And we still don't treat it as a disease!

In ICD-10-CM, mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use are categorized under codes F10-F19. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

  • F10-F19: This broad category covers mental and behavioral disorders caused by psychoactive substance use. 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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