Words Matter: Transforming Addiction Treatment Language with Julie Burns and Dr. Miriam Komaromy
Really trying to start with person first instead of condition or disease first, I love that.
Have you ever thought about how the words we use can shape our understanding of addiction? In this episode of 'Airing Addiction,' co-hosts Cathy Collins and Lisa Blanchard sit down with Julie Burns from RIZE Massachusetts and Dr. Miriam Komaromy from Boston Medical Center to dive into this very topic. They explore how shifting the language around addiction can create a more compassionate and effective treatment environment.
Julie and Miriam share their extensive experience in the field, highlighting the importance of seeing individuals as more than their condition. They discuss the parallels between chronic diseases and addiction, emphasizing how language can either perpetuate stigma or foster healing. The conversation also delves into the complex layers of intersectionality, revealing how different backgrounds and identities can affect one's experience with substance use disorder.
If you're interested in how simple changes in terminology can make a big difference in addiction treatment, this episode is a must-listen. It's a thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the power of words in shaping perceptions and improving care.