See the Person

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Know The Facts
See the Person

Would knowing they had a substance use disorder change how you saw them?

For people who have a substance use disorder, stigma is the number one barrier to treatment. But when you choose to see the person, not just their disease, you can change someone's life.

Woman — Business Owner | Sibling | Partner | Friend | Artist

I’m the hairstylist you’ve gone to for years.

Stylist with client — Business Owner | Sibling | Partner | Friend | Artist

Will you still see me for your next cut?

Man — Son | Friend | Brother | Community Leader | Cat Dad

I’m the coworker you sit next to at the office.

Two coworkers in a meeting — Son | Friend | Brother | Community Leader | Cat Dad

Will you still grab lunch with me?

Woman in white coat — Wife | Mother | Sister | Aunt | Hockey Fan

I’m the dentist you see for checkups.

Dentist with patient — Wife | Mother | Sister | Aunt | Hockey Fan

Will you still see me, the person, and trust me with your dental care?

Man — Veteran | Father | Husband | Dog Lover | Uncle

I’m the neighbor you chat with in the morning.

Man and woman talking — Veteran | Father | Husband | Dog Lover | Uncle

Can our kids still play together?

One in twelve Hoosiers meets the criteria for a substance use disorder.¹

So, it's likely you know someone living with one. Whether it's your favorite barista, a neighbor, a friend, or a family member, choose to see their humanity and the person you know behind the addiction. You might just help someone get the courage to seek treatment.

Watch Video

How We Talk About Addiction Matters

Much of the language people use to talk about addiction can be biased and hurtful, which can keep people from getting the treatment they need.

Use the tool below to discover a better way to talk about substance use disorder. Rework the stigmatizing sentences by clicking on the blue words and phrases. Fight stigma in your community by using the language in yellow when you talk about substance use disorder.

Language flipper: click blue words to see preferred alternatives

Click on the blue words to see what language to use instead.

I have a drug use problemsubstance use disorder. I had a dirty drug screenpositive drug screen and lost my job. I didn't believe recovery was possible, but I've been clean & soberin recovery for 10 years.

My dad was labeled a junkiesubstance dependent. He was arrested as a drug offenderfor a drug violation. I didn't think treatment was available but, with help, he has stayed cleanmaintained recovery for 20 years.

Addiction is a choicedisease. Using drugs is a moral weaknesschanges your brain. It's difficultpossible for people to kick their drug habitrecover from this disease and go on to live happy, healthy lives.

I have a drug addictionsubstance use disorder. It's okay to see my addiction. But, people choosing to see me only as an addictas a person really madehelped me feel like I didn't deserveI deserved recovery.

Stop Stigma in Your Community

How You Can Help

We can all play a part in helping Hoosiers affected by substance use disorders, from changing how we talk about addiction to supporting those in recovery.

LEARN WAYS YOU CAN HELP

The Truth About SUD

Addiction is a disease. Treatment is available. Recovery is possible. Do you know the facts about substance use disorder?

LEARN THE FACTS

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Have questions?
Email KnowtheFactsIndiana@fssa.IN.gov

Know the Facts is an initiative of Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction.

Many of the photos included on this webpage are stock or original photography featuring paid actors. These photos do not represent individuals suffering from substance use disorder or living in recovery. The exception to this are photos of people who are named and share their personal story about substance use disorder. We are grateful for these brave survivors' willingness to come forward to help reduce the stigma of substance use disorder and provide encouragement for those suffering from this chronic disease.

1. Indiana University. The Crisis in Indiana: Addiction affects every aspect of Hoosier life. Publishing date not specified.