What Words Matter When Talking About Addiction?

Common phrases like "alcoholic" and "alcohol abuse" are often used when discussing alcohol addiction, but they can be stigmatizing. Instead, we can use person-first language such as "person with alcohol use disorder" and "alcohol misuse" to reduce stigma and empower those who may benefit from support to build a healthier relationship with alcohol. Words are powerful tools—they can either cause harm or open pathways to healing.

In the award-winning TV series Breaking Bad, there's a memorable scene where Jesse Pinkman, a drug dealer struggling with addiction, is harshly criticized by Walter White. Walter, overwhelmed by his own struggles after a cancer diagnosis, calls Jesse a "junkie"—a word that visibly wounds him. Jesse's pained expression shows just how deeply a single word can affect someone.

This moment highlights how language can hurt those dealing with addiction, underscoring the importance of choosing our words carefully. When discussing alcohol addiction, our words have the power to harm or to heal, making compassionate communication essential. Let's explore alcohol use disorder (AUD) and learn which terms to use and avoid to help reduce stigma.

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is often misunderstood as a simple bad habit or lack of willpower, but it's actually a medical condition recognized in the DSM-V—the standard manual used by mental health professionals. AUD is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use, despite negative effects on physical, mental, or social health.

Over time, a person can become physically and neurologically dependent on alcohol. Alcohol affects the brain's reward system, linking drinking with pleasure and making it difficult to quit. That's why treatment and support are so important for recovery. Let's look at how stigma can impact this process.

Words Matter: Shifting to Destigmatizing Language

Stigma around AUD can include false beliefs—like thinking a person with AUD is dangerous, irresponsible, or unable to manage treatment. These ideas often come from outdated views that AUD is a moral failing rather than a treatable condition.

We can reduce stigma by using person-first language. This approach uses a neutral tone and separates the person from their diagnosis. For example, we say someone "has cancer," not that they "are cancerous." Similarly, we should say a person "has AUD," not that they "are an alcoholic." Person-first language helps preserve a person's dignity by avoiding labels that define them by their condition.

Returning to the Breaking Bad example, after Walt calls Jesse a "junkie," Jesse reacts defensively, escalating the conflict. Stigmatizing language can make people with AUD feel attacked or misunderstood, leading to strained relationships. Let's learn how to put stigma-free language into practice.

Terms To Use

Words matter, so let's use them to support positive change. While some outdated terms appear in research or resources, it's important to use respectful language in personal conversations. Here are some helpful terms to use:

• Person-centered language: Use "person with AUD" or "person in recovery" to separate the individual from their condition.
• Medically accurate terms: "Alcohol use disorder" is a neutral, clinical term—better than labels like "alcoholic" or "addict."
• Empowering language: Acknowledge the strength it takes to face AUD with phrases like "in recovery" or "working toward a healthier relationship with alcohol."
• Nonjudgmental tone: Even neutral terms like "relapse" or "dependence" can sound harsh if used judgmentally. Quitemate them as challenges to overcome, not failures.

Terms To Avoid

As writer Jessamyn West said, "A broken bone can heal, but the wound a word opens can fester forever." Mindful word choice helps us heal rather than harm. Here are terms to avoid:

• Stigmatizing labels: Avoid "addict," "drunk," "alcoholic," or "abuser." These suggest the person is the problem, rather than having a problem.
• Words with negative connotations: Terms like "clean/dirty," "character defect," or "failure" imply someone is "less-than" because of AUD.
• Inaccurate or misleading terms: "Alcohol abuse" or "habit" downplay the real physical and psychological aspects of AUD.
• Condescending language: Words like "junkie," "drunkie," or "boozer" are offensive and reduce a person to their condition.

You might see terms like "alcoholic" or "alcohol abuse" used in research or online—this doesn't always mean the speaker is being offensive. The key is to avoid using these labels directly toward someone. Saying "You're an alcoholic" is very different from discussing "types of alcoholics" in a research context.

The Power of Words in Dismantling Addiction Stigma

Stigma is a major barrier to treatment. Fear of judgment may prevent people with AUD from seeking help. Without support, ongoing excessive drinking can lead to serious health issues and even be fatal—making treatment crucial.

Misinformation and stereotypes can also lead to negative emotions like pity, fear, or anger, pushing people away from those with AUD. Having friends and family for support is often key to recovery. By choosing our words carefully, we can help reduce stigma and its harmful effects.

Beyond Intentional Words: Effective Communication

Effective communication involves more than just word choice. To have supportive conversations about AUD, try these strategies:

• Set the stage: Choose a good time and place to talk, free from distractions, to show you care.
• Be aware of your tone: Avoid sounding accusatory. Instead of saying "You're drinking too much," share your concerns about how alcohol is affecting their health.
• Listen with empathy: Practice active listening—confirm what you hear and keep an open mind.
• Continue learning: Language evolves. Stay open to new information and better ways to communicate about AUD.

Mindful word choice is just the beginning. Using these strategies can help tackle the stigma surrounding AUD.

The Final Word

When talking about AUD, our words can either hurt or help. Even commonly used terms like "alcoholic" or "addiction" can contribute to stigma. Stigma may prevent people from seeking treatment and isolate them from support. Left untreated, AUD can severely harm health and even be life-threatening. Something as simple as the words we choose can make a big difference—so let's choose them wisely!