Shame, blame, and fame: the impact of substance use stigma on patients, parents, providers, and the public and what to do about it

Substance use disorders (SUDs) most commonly onset during late adolescence. An estimated 10% of individuals in need of substance use treatment receive such treatment, even when availability is not the primary barrier. Stigma toward SUDs negatively impacts individuals, families, providers, and the public. This impairs both preventive and treatment efforts among adolescents and families, with minority populations being disproportionately affected. Child and adolescent psychiatrists and other allied health professionals have a unique opportunity to decrease substance use–related stigma.