Reducing Stigma and Enhancing Care for People Who Use Alcohol

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Abstract

Alcohol use is common and associated with varying degrees of harm. Heavy alcohol use can lead to the development of an alcohol use disorder (AUD). The stigma and discrimination that people with AUD often face can act as barriers to seeking clinical services and may negatively impact the quality of care they receive. This article outlines best practices for working with people who use alcohol, emphasizing the importance of addressing stigma in caring for and communicating with clients. Written from a harm-reduction perspective, it highlights the significance of client-driven goal setting and autonomy, meeting clients where they are regarding their behavior change goals, and maintaining a non-judgmental, compassionate stance.

Continuing Education Information

1 CE Credit, Instructional Level: Intermediate

1 Contact Hour (New York Board of Psychology)

Learning Objectives:

  1. Identify the possible outcomes of alcohol use.
  2. Discuss the possible effects of stigma and discrimination that people with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) may face.
  3. List the best practices for working with individuals who use alcohol.

Disclosures: No conflicts of interest to disclose. Generative AI was not used in the development or content.

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Link et al.

Kara M. Link, BA (she/her), is a clinical psychology doctoral student at the University of New Mexico. Her research interests include substance use disorder treatment, substance-related stigma, and the intersection of chronic pain and substance use.

Brittany Bryant, DSW, LISW-CP(S), LCSW (she/her), is a licensed clinical social worker and Assistant Professor at the University of California, San Francisco in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Her research interests include the co-development of culturally adapted substance use treatment with minoritized communities.

Cassandra L. Boness, PhD (she/they), is a licensed clinical psychologist and Assistant Professor at the University of New Mexico in the Department of Psychology and at the Center on Alcohol, Substance use, And Addictions. Her clinical and research interests focus on substance use and substance use disorders, especially alcohol.

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