Addiction and mental health: Rogers’ expert discusses the impact of stigma

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In honor of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, March 18-24, Rogers is shining the spotlight on stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.

Key findings from a 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows nearly 49 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder, including 29.5 million who had an alcohol use disorder.

While television and movies frequently add to the stigma by portraying stereotypes of people who use substances, as a leader in mental health and addiction treatment, we know substance use disorder affects people from all walks of life.

"When I think of stigma, I think of the fear of the unknown," says Michelle Maloney, PhD, LPC, CAADC, CRPS, system executive clinical director of Addiction Services for Rogers Behavioral Health. "We're always afraid of what we don't understand, and I think that's a big component of stigma. We need to get the message out there that stigma only hurts individuals seeking treatment." 

Watch the video above to hear more from Dr. Maloney.

How Rogers can help

Rogers offers compassionate care in a growing number of communities nationwide. If you or a loved one need help, call 800-767-4411 for a free, confidential screening.