Kenneth Anderson
Kenneth Anderson
The Word "Addict" Is Hate Speech
The Word "Addict" Is Hate Speech
The Word "Addict" Is Hate Speech
Friday 20th February 2015
Meghan Ralston discusses why the term 'addict' is harmful and advocates for a harm reduction approach on Harm Reduction Radio - HAMS.
73 minutes
Informative
Thought-provoking
Raw
Engaging
Empowering
About this podcast
Author:
Kenneth Anderson
Overview:
Categories:
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Nutritional Pathways to Recovery
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
181 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Meghan Ralston on Why 'Addict' Is a Harmful Label
For me, I didn't want to be a person with a drug problem in any way, shape or form, ever again for the rest of my life. I thought of myself as a person in great pain, with great struggles, who had a major drug and alcohol problem, but I didn't think of myself as an addict.
Is the word 'addict' doing more harm than good? In this eye-opening episode of Harm Reduction Radio - HAMS, host Kenneth Anderson sits down with Meghan Ralston, harm reduction manager for the Drug Policy Alliance. Ralston, who has penned articles like 'I'm Breaking Up With the Word 'Addict'', makes a compelling case for why this term is damaging. She argues that labeling someone as an 'addict' not only stigmatizes them but also creates barriers to seeking help and recovery.
Instead, Ralston advocates for a harm reduction approach that focuses on client-centered treatment and the benefits of regulating and controlling substances. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the nuances of addiction treatment and the power of language. Tune in to hear why words matter and how shifting our vocabulary can make a real difference in people's lives.