Stigma and discrimination associated with substance use - key findings summary

Stigma is essentially any attitude, belief or behaviour that discriminates against people. It is a fundamental cause of health inequities and is especially prevalent for people who use substances, including alcohol, and experience problematic substance use. He Ara Oranga: Report of the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction (2018) identifies a need to shift the national mindset towards viewing problematic substance use as a health issue. A literature review was undertaken to better understand the extent and impact of stigma and discrimination in relation to substance use and problematic substance use. This document provides an overview of the key findings.