February 2025 – Webb Therapy

The continued differential treatment of mental illness and addiction compared to physical illness by broader society is rooted in several factors:

Historical Context

Historically, mental illness and addiction have been misunderstood and stigmatized. For much of history, these conditions were seen as moral failings or character flaws rather than medical issues. This has led to a persistent stigma that continues to influence societal attitudes.

Lack of Awareness and Education

There is still a significant lack of awareness and education about mental health and addiction. Many people do not understand that these conditions are medical issues that require treatment, just like physical illnesses. This lack of understanding contributes to negative attitudes and discrimination.

Media Representation

Media often portrays mental illness and addiction in a negative light, reinforcing stereotypes and misconceptions. These portrayals can shape public perception and contribute to the stigma surrounding these conditions.

Criminalization

Addiction, in particular, has been heavily criminalised. This has led to a perception of addiction as a criminal issue rather than a health issue, further entrenching stigma and discrimination.

Internalised Stigma

Individuals with mental illness or addiction often internalise the stigma they experience, leading to feelings of shame and low self-worth. This can prevent them from seeking help and support, perpetuating the cycle of stigma and discrimination.

Healthcare System

Even within the healthcare system, biases and stigma can affect the quality of care provided to individuals with mental illness or addiction. This can lead to inadequate treatment and support, further exacerbating the issue.

Social and Cultural Factors

Social and cultural factors also play a role in how mental illness and addiction are perceived. Different cultures have varying attitudes towards these conditions, which can influence how they are treated and supported.

The differential treatment of treatment-resistant substance use disorder (SUD) and treatment-resistant cancer by society can be attributed to several factors:

1. Perception of Control

Substance use disorders are often perceived as a result of personal choices or moral failings, whereas cancer is seen as an uncontrollable disease. This perception leads to stigma and blame towards individuals with SUD, while those with cancer are more likely to receive sympathy and support.

2. Historical Stigma

Historically, substance use has been stigmatised and criminalised, leading to a societal view that addiction is a choice rather than a medical condition. In contrast, cancer has been recognized as a medical condition requiring treatment and compassion.

3. Media Representation

Media often portrays substance use in a negative light, emphasising criminality and moral failure. Cancer, on the other hand, is often depicted with empathy and urgency, highlighting the need for medical intervention and support.

4. Healthcare System

The healthcare system has historically been more equipped to handle cancer treatment, with extensive research, funding, and specialized care. SUD treatment has lagged behind, with fewer resources and less comprehensive care options.

5. Complexity of Treatment

Treatment-resistant SUD involves complex psychological, social, and biological factors, making it challenging to treat effectively. Cancer treatment resistance, while also complex, has seen significant advancements in research and technology, leading to more effective treatments.

6. Social and Cultural Factors

Cultural attitudes towards substance use and addiction vary widely, with some societies viewing it as a personal failing. Cancer is generally viewed more universally as a disease that requires medical intervention.

REFERENCES

Substance Use Disorder and Stigma

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2024). Initiatives and programs. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/initiatives-and-programs

Morrison, A. P., Birchwood, M., Pyle, M., Flach, C., Stewart, S. L. K., Byrne, R., Patterson, P., Jones, P. B., Fowler, D., & Gumley, A. I. (2013). Impact of cognitive therapy on internalised stigma in people with at-risk mental states. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 203(2), 140-145. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.112.112110

Wood, L., Byrne, R., Burke, E., Enache, G., & Morrison, A. P. (2017). The impact of stigma on emotional distress and recovery from psychosis: The mediatory role of internalised shame and self-esteem. Retrieved from https://repository.essex.ac.uk/21927/1/woodpr2017.pdf

Cancer Treatment and Stigma

American Cancer Society. (2023). Cancer treatment and survivorship. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects.html

National Cancer Institute. (2022). Cancer treatment (PDQ)–Patient version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/treatment-pdq/patient/cancer-treatment-pdq

World Health Organization. (2021). Cancer treatment and palliative care. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/cancer-treatment-palliative-care/en/

Continued guilt, shame, and internalised stigma correlated to alcohol and other drug use

Despite significant advancements in political and health initiatives by governments and non-governmental organisations, shame, stigma, and internalized stigma continue to profoundly impact millions of lives worldwide. These negative perceptions and self-judgments can lead to feelings of worthlessness, self-blame, and social withdrawal, which in turn hinder access to services and participation in treatment.

Shame and stigma are particularly prevalent among individuals with substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and those experiencing psychosis. For instance, internalised stigma can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and hopelessness, which significantly impede recovery and emotional well-being. Even with the implementation of cognitive therapy and other supportive measures, the battle against internalised stigma remains ongoing in a similar fashion to intergenerational trauma, as though it has been built into human DNA.

Political and health initiatives have attempted to be instrumental in addressing these issues. For example, the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has launched numerous programs aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing stigma. These initiatives focus on health promotion, early intervention, and disease prevention, aiming to create supportive environments for those affected by stigma.

However, the persistence of shame and stigma highlights the need for continued efforts to combat these issues especially in the workplace and within individual families. Addressing stigma therapeutically, promoting empathy and non-judgmental attitudes, and supporting individuals to view themselves beyond their conditions are crucial steps in mitigating the negative impacts of stigma.

Helping someone with a substance use disorder (SUD) while protecting yourself and your family involves a delicate balance of support and self-care. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Educate Yourself

Understanding SUD and its effects can help you make informed decisions and provide better support. Reliable sources include medical professionals, reputable websites, and support groups.

2. Set Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries to protect your well-being. This might include rules about substance use in the home, financial support, and personal interactions. Boundaries help prevent enabling behaviours and reduce stress.

3. Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is crucial. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with friends. Self-care helps you maintain your mental and emotional health.

4. Seek Support

Join support groups like Al-Anon or seek therapy to process your emotions and develop coping strategies. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can provide invaluable support and understanding.

5. Encourage Professional Help

Encourage your loved one to seek professional help, such as counselling, therapy, or medical treatment. Treatment programs often include individual, group, or family therapy sessions, which can be beneficial for everyone involved.

6. Detach with Love

Detaching with love means setting emotional and psychological boundaries while still offering support. This approach helps you avoid becoming emotionally drained and allows your loved one to face the consequences of their actions.

7. Be Patient and Compassionate

Recovery is a journey that takes time. Be patient and compassionate with your loved one and yourself. Celebrate small victories and stay hopeful.

8. Avoid Judgment

Avoid being judgmental when discussing substance use. Offer support and understanding instead of criticism, which can help reduce feelings of shame and stigma.

References

Al-Anon Family Groups. (n.d.). Al-Anon and Alateen. Retrieved from https://al-anon.org/newcomers/what-is-al-anon-and-alateen

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2024). Initiatives and programs. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/what-we-do/initiatives-and-programs

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2024). Health promotion and health protection. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/health-promotion

Australian Government Department of Health. (2019). Alcohol and other drugs – Information for families. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/alcohol-and-other-drugs-information-for-families

Mental Health Foundation. (2016). How to cope when supporting someone else. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-cope-when-supporting-someone-else

Morrison, A. P., Birchwood, M., Pyle, M., Flach, C., Stewart, S. L. K., Byrne, R., Patterson, P., Jones, P. B., Fowler, D., & Gumley, A. I. (2013). Impact of cognitive therapy on internalised stigma in people with at-risk mental states. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 203(2), 140-145. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.112.112110

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Family support in addiction recovery. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-adolescent-substance-use-disorder-treatment-research-based-guide/family-support-in-addiction-recovery

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2015). Substance use disorders. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disorders

Wood, L., Byrne, R., Burke, E., Enache, G., & Morrison, A. P. (2017). The impact of stigma on emotional distress and recovery from psychosis: The mediatory role of internalised shame and self-esteem. Retrieved from https://repository.essex.ac.uk/21927/1/woodpr2017.pdf

Your Room. (2021). Shame and self-stigma. Retrieved from https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/whats-new/Pages/Shame-and-self-stigma.aspx

Month: February 2025

The continued differential treatment of mental illness and addiction compared to physical illness by broader society is rooted in several factors:The continued differential treatment of mental illness and addiction compared to physical illness by broader society is rooted in several factors: