"If we want addiction destigmatized,

we need a language that's unified.

The words we use matter. Caution needs to be taken, especially when the disorders concerned are heavily stigmatized as substance use disorders are."

The Recovery Research Institute has put together this incredible "Addictionary" that's filled with a multitude of information on (de)stigmatizing language! From six different definitions of abstinence down to withdrawal and everything in-between!

Words can dismiss, demean and discourage: “You are a drug abuser. You’ve chosen this life and you choose to not stop abusing drugs. You’ve made your bed now sleep in it.”

Or words can affirm, they can empower and motivate: “You have a Substance Use Disorder. This is a medical condition that is very likely to respond to treatment that is available to you. This will require cooperation and effort on your part.”

This training will educate providers on the needs of families impacted by a loved one's substance use disorder or severe mental illness. The aim is to both increase awareness of the needs of this group of individuals' for support and provide tools such as traditional CBT as well as acupuncture and mindfulness training that can decrease the family member's stress, anxiety or PTSD. Resilient families help create healthy communities where recovery is possible and supported.

This training will consist of two 3-hour training sessions focused on enhancing skills and competency for young leaders in recovery to advocate for positive change in their communities. Participants will learn the importance of language to eliminate stigma, guiding principles of recovery and effective strategies for social justice within the recovery movement.

Motivational Interviewing: Open Practice for Recovery Coaches Training

Description: Join Will Roberts and Lisa Lord from Recovery Vermont for an open Motivational Interviewing practice session. Motivational Interviewing is a client-centered, evidence-based, directive method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. During this one-hour training, we will have brief instruction to brush up on skills, and then spend the majority of the time in pairs practicing.