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How can I manage stigma and shame when seeking help? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: So stigma in addiction can make someone that is struggling feel defined by that rather than seen as a whole person.
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  SPEAKER_00: And when shame around that becomes overwhelming, it can make it harder to reach out for support.
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  SPEAKER_00: We should start in a trauma-informed way by recognising that addiction is complex.
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  SPEAKER_00: It's not simply about a lack of willpower or making bad choices.
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  SPEAKER_00: People use substances for many different reasons, like coping with trauma, stress, loneliness, or difficult life experiences.
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  SPEAKER_00: So the first step in managing shame is changing the way that we talk to ourselves.
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  SPEAKER_00: Instead of saying I'm an addict and I've failed, we can begin to separate the person from the behaviour.
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  SPEAKER_00: We can say, I'm experiencing a substance misuse problem and I need support.
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  SPEAKER_00: That change in language might seem small, but it creates space for compassion.
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  SPEAKER_00: Another important step is finding safe people to talk to.
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  SPEAKER_00: You don't have to tell everybody your story.
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  SPEAKER_00: Start with somebody who is trustworthy, non-judgmental, and able to listen without trying to shame you.
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  SPEAKER_00: Seeking professional help can also provide a confidential space where you can talk openly about what is happening.
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  SPEAKER_00: Professionals should focus on safety, choice, collaboration, and respect.
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  SPEAKER_00: It's also important to understand that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness.
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  SPEAKER_00: In fact, recognising that something is no longer working and being willing to seek support can be an important part of recovery.
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  SPEAKER_00: If shame keeps coming up, try and noticing it rather than immediately believing it.
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  SPEAKER_00: You might say to yourself, I'm noticing that I'm feeling ashamed rather than I'm terrible, I make terrible choices, for example.
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  SPEAKER_00: That creates a bit of distance between you and the feeling.
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  SPEAKER_00: You don't have to wait until you hit rock bottom.
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  SPEAKER_00: That looks very different to everybody, and it is so subjective, you don't have to prove that your problem's serious enough, and you don't have to be completely ready to change everything at once.
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  SPEAKER_00: Recognising something isn't working for you really is the key.
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  SPEAKER_00: Reducing stigma starts when we replace judgment with curiosity and shame with compassion.
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  SPEAKER_00: Also, isolation with connection.