TOOLS AGAINST STIGMA
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GUIDE ON ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS
INFORMATION ON THE MAIN ADDICTIONS AND TOOLS FOR THEIR PREVENTION
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]This information document describes addictive behaviors, their characteristics, risk factors and different models for their approach. The guide includes information on the most common substance and non-substance addictions and their consequences on the mental health of people who use them. the publication places emphasis on prevention through different tools, processes of change and protective factors, aimed especially at professionals working in this field for their intervention. In this context, it includes a chapter dedicated to motivational interviewing, its planning, processes, different types of listening, approach, types of questions and other aspects to take into consideration.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Paternity: Community Mental Health Federation of the Valencian Community
Publishing body: Community Mental Health Federation of the Valencian Community
Year of publication: 2024[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.consaludmental.org%2Fpublicaciones%2FGuia-Conductas-Adictivas.pdf|title:DESCARGAR|target:_blank” button_alignment=”btn_inline_right”]DOWNLOAD[/dt_default_button][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_btntitle=”VOLVERAADICCIONES”style=”gradient-custom”gradient_custom_color_1=”#ffffff”gradient_custom_color_2=”#ffffff”gradient_text_color=”#005b50″shape=”square”align=”center”i_icon_fontawesome=””add_icon=”true”link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fconsaludmentalorg%2Fcentro-de-documentacion%2Fprevencion-y-promocion-de-la-salud-mental%2Frn[vc_btntitle=”VOLVERAADICCIONES”style=”gradient-custom”gradient_custom_color_1=”#ffffff”gradient_custom_color_2=”#ffffff”gradient_text_color=”#005b50″shape=”square”align=”center”i_icon_fontawesome=””add_icon=”true”link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fconsaludmentalorg%2Fcentro-de-documentacion%2Fprevencion-y-promocion-de-la-salud-mental%2Frn[vc_btntitle=”VOLVERAADICCIONES”style=”gradient-custom”gradient_custom_color_1=”#ffffff”gradient_custom_color_2=”#ffffff”gradient_text_color=”#005b50″shape=”square”align=”center”i_icon_fontawesome=””add_icon=”true”link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fconsaludmentalorg%2Fcentro-de-documentacion%2Fprevencion-y-promocion-de-la-salud-mental%2Frn[vc_btntitle=”VOLVERAADICCIONES”style=”gradient-custom”gradient_custom_color_1=”#ffffff”gradient_custom_color_2=”#ffffff”gradient_text_color=”#005b50″shape=”square”align=”center”i_icon_fontawesome=””add_icon=”true”link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fconsaludmentalorg%2Fcentro-de-documentacion%2Fprevencion-y-promocion-de-la-salud-mental%2Frn
TOOLS AGAINST STIGMA
GUIDE ON ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS
INFORMATION ON THE MAIN ADD
This information document describes addictive behaviors, their characteristics, risk factors and different models for their approach. The guide includes information on the most common substance and non-substance addictions and their consequences on the mental health of people who use them. the publication places emphasis on prevention through different tools, processes of change and protective factors, aimed especially at professionals working in this field for their intervention. In this context, it includes a chapter dedicated to motivational interviewing, its planning, processes, different types of listening, approach, types of questions and other aspects to take into consideration.
Paternity: Community Mental Health Federation of the Valencian Community
Publishing body: Community Mental Health Federation of the Valencian Community
Year of publication: 2024
What are some effective ways to reduce the stigma associated with addiction?
Time.news Interview with Dr. Ana Vasquez, Addiction Specialist
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Vasquez! Thank you for joining us today to discuss a pressing social issue: addiction and the stigma surrounding it.
Dr. Ana Vasquez (AV): Thank you for having me! This is such an important topic, and I’m glad we can shed some light on it today.
TNE: Let’s start with a fundamental question. Why is it essential to combat stigma related to addiction?
AV: Stigma can severely impact individuals struggling with addiction. It creates barriers to seeking help and reinforces feelings of shame. When we address stigma, we encourage people to come forward and access the support they need. This leads to healthier communities and promotes overall mental health.
TNE: Your organization has developed various tools aimed at reducing this stigma. Could you tell us about some of these effective tools?
AV: Absolutely! We’ve created educational resources that inform the public about what addiction truly is—highlighting that it is a disease, not a moral failing. Additionally, we have workshops and training for healthcare professionals to better understand addiction and its complexities. This not only equips them to help their patients but also encourages them to treat individuals with compassion rather than judgment.
TNE: That sounds incredibly impactful. Can you share any success stories that highlight the effectiveness of these tools?
AV: Certainly! One notable case involved a community-based program where we provided education on addiction to local businesses and schools. After several workshops, we saw a significant decrease in negative stereotypes surrounding addiction in the community. Individuals who had been reluctant to seek help started coming forward, and we witnessed an increase in people participating in support groups. This kind of transformation shows the power of education and awareness.
TNE: It seems education is a critical pillar. Are there specific aspects of addiction that the public still misunderstands?
AV: Yes, one common misconception is that addiction only affects certain demographics or socioeconomic statuses, which is far from the truth. Addiction knows no boundaries; it can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or profession. Another misunderstanding is equating addictive behaviors with a lack of willpower. Addiction can be biologically driven and influenced by psychological and environmental factors. Recognizing these complexities is crucial.
TNE: How does the rise of new technologies, especially social media, play a role in both amplifying addiction issues and supporting recovery?
AV: It’s a double-edged sword, for sure. On one hand, social media can perpetuate unhealthy behaviors and foster environments where addictive substances are glamorized. On the other hand, it also offers a platform for support and community. Many recovery networks and mental health organizations use these platforms to disseminate positive messages and resources. We encourage individuals to engage with these positive networks to counteract the negative influences.
TNE: With that in mind, what proactive steps can individuals take to support friends or family struggling with addiction?
AV: First, it’s vital to approach the subject with empathy and understanding. Listening without judgment is key. Educating oneself about addiction can also empower individuals to provide effective support. Encouraging loved ones to seek professional help and participating in community support groups together can make a significant difference. Individuals should know they are not alone in this journey.
TNE: Such valuable advice, Dr. Vasquez. As we wrap up, what message would you like to leave our readers about overcoming stigma and supporting addiction recovery?
AV: Let’s work together to change the narrative surrounding addiction. By fostering understanding, compassion, and education, we can create a supportive environment for recovery. Remember, it’s about people—real lives—and together, we can make a difference.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights today, Dr. Vasquez. It’s clear that combating stigma and supporting those affected by addiction requires collective effort and compassion.
AV: Thank you for giving this important issue a platform!