{"id":888,"date":"2025-06-24T17:30:53","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T17:30:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lacl.missouri.edu\/?page_id=888"},"modified":"2025-07-16T21:01:17","modified_gmt":"2025-07-16T21:01:17","slug":"first-person-language-words-to-use-and-words-to-avoid","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lacl.missouri.edu\/index.php\/first-person-language-words-to-use-and-words-to-avoid\/","title":{"rendered":"First-Person Language: Words to use and words to avoid"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When you begin working with people who use, abuse, or are addicted to substances, you might be unsure or worried about how to address them to create a welcoming atmosphere in the library. As we know, words matter. It is good to ask people how they want to be described<\/a>. People in 12-step programs might prefer to use the term ‘addict’ or ‘alcoholic.’<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The following information about person-first language is from the National Institute on Drug Abuse<\/a> and is in the public domain. It was written for healthcare providers but adapted for library workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This page offers background information and tips for providers to keep in mind while using person-first language, as well as terms to avoid to reduce stigma and negative bias when discussing addiction. For similar information for patients, visit NIDA\u2019s Words Matter: Preferred Language for Talking About Addiction<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stigma and Addiction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is stigma?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stigma is a discrimination against an identifiable group of people, a place, or a nation. Stigma about people with SUD might include inaccurate or unfounded thoughts like they are dangerous, incapable of managing treatment, or at fault for their condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where does stigma come from?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For people with an SUD, stigma may stem from antiquated and inaccurate beliefs that addiction is a moral failing, instead of what we know it to be\u2014a chronic, treatable disease from which patients can recover and continue to lead healthy lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How does stigma affect people with SUD?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n