Disrupting Stigma: How Understanding, Empathy, and Connection Can Improve Outcomes for Families Affected by Substance Use Disorders

A brief to support cross-system collaborative teams in their work to reduce stigma in interactions, expectations, and policies affecting families. This brief provides several strategies, including how to intentionally use language to: 1) fight stigma and 2) facilitate engagement with parents and family members affected by SUDs. Information contained here stems from best practices in the field—gleaned from experience working with relevant partners across the country—and a thorough review of literature and materials cited from expert sources.