Communication

Language matters. When communicating verbally or visually about substance use or incarceration, it’s important to use respectful and humanizing forms of communication that don’t perpetuate misleading stereotypes. Below are some resources to help strengthen your communications, marketing and language when discussing justice-involved or at-risk populations.

• Stop The Stigma (NCDHHS: Injury and Violence Prevention Branch)
• Tip Sheet: Language and OUD (Duke Social Work)
• Words Matter! Language Statement & Reference Guide (International Network of People Who Use Drugs)
• Guidance for Using Non-Stigmatizing Imagery for Substance Use Disorders and Justice Involvement (Addiction Policy Forum and The HEAL Initiative)
• Meaningful Engagement of People with Lived Experience (Global Fund to End Modern Slavery, National Survivor Network)