*A Note on Language
We honor these stories by not adjusting the language people used to convey them as participants are sharing their own experiences. However, some of the videos contain language that can perpetuate stigma toward people with substance use disorders. As healthcare workers, we should use person-first language to reduce stigma and bias when discussion addiction. Not doing so leads to worse outcomes and experiences. Please review this NIDA page on person-first language for preferred terms to use when talking to and about people who use drugs.
Show up with respect, openness, and partnership.
Strong communication skills make a big difference. Learn approaches you can incorporate into your interactions to ensure that your patients feel empowered and respected. These include being respectful, open, and non-judgmental and truly partnering with your patient to meet them where they are. You can learn more about motivational interviewing, a communication tool that is an evidence-based way to discuss behavioral changes, in our Additional Resources.
Walking into it with hope and an attempt to engage and treat somebody is really important.
- Curt Geier, PHARMD
