Glossary
Language Matters. The terms we use, why we use them and what they mean. Consider using these recommended terms to reduce stigma and negative bias when talking about addiction.
Please see below terminology often used in supporting an individual who has a substance use disorder.
Person First Language
Person first language shows that a person “has” a problem rather than “is” the problem. Practising “person first” language can go a long way in reducing the stigma associated with drug use.
Substance Use Disorder
Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person's brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication. When addicted, the user may continue using the drug despite the harm it causes.
OAT - Opioid Agonist Therapy
Opioid agonist treatment, often called OAT, uses medications such as Suboxone and methadone to treat opioid addiction, reduce drug-related harms and support long-term recovery. Opioid agonist treatment is a safe and effective medication-based treatment for people who are dependent on opioid drugs such as heroin, oxycodone, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), fentanyl and Percocet. Opioid agonist treatment involves taking opioid agonist medications such as methadone, buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), or slow-release oral morphine (Kadian). These medications act slowly in the body, work to prevent withdrawal and reduce cravings for opioid drugs.http://www.bcmhsus.ca/health-professionals/clinical-professional-resources/opioid-agonist-treatment
Safe Supply
The Canadian Association of people who use Drugs defines safe supply as follows: Safe supply refers to a legal and regulated supply of drugs with mind/body altering properties that traditionally have been accessible only through the illicit drug market. Drugs included are opioids such as heroin, stimulants such as cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, hallucinogens such as MDMA and LSD, and marijuana. (https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ef3cdaf47af2060a1cc594e/t/608c29e8d9137244ec7da81f/1619798507472/CAPUD+safe+supply+English+March+3+2019.pdf)
Current safe supply initiatives involve physicians prescribing off label pharmaceutical alternatives, but there are calls for low barrier approaches that do not involve prescribers as gage keepers.