Is the Word 'Addict' an Insult?

Should We Not Use the Term 'Addict'?

Have you ever thought that using the word 'addict' is an insult? 

I was catching up on current events relating to addiction/substance abuse when I came across an article on HuffingtonPost.  The article was titled Should We Stop Using the Word 'Addict'? It caught my eye and by the end of the article I had mixed feelings toward the word 'addict'. Before reading the article I had never thought that using the word was wrong. The post claims that the word itself is a stigma (a set of negative and often unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something). It had be thinking about the times I had used the word to describe someone. Was I wrong to call them an addict? Did I hurt their feelings? The article states different opinions and allows you to think for yourself! 

Since I want to work with substance abuser in the future, it caused me to wonder if 

'addict' was a term I should stray away from. However, the bigger part of me thought otherwise.

When a substance abuser is in denial, they do not view themselves as an addict because they do not believe they have a problem. When they are faced with the reality, they realize that they need help. They have accepted the fact that they are an addict. Telling themselves, "I am an addict, I need help with my addiction" may be the first step to recovery. This may be more difficult for them if the term they are referring to them-self  is considered an insult. 

I feel that re-naming this term could cause confusion among many. I would love to hear what others think about using the word 'addict'? All in all I don't think it should be considered offensive. When talking to a substance abuser, I find it alright to call them an 'addict'. I believe this can be done in a way that does not come off as harsh. 



If you would like to check out the article for yourself, here is the link! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/the-influence/should-we-stop-using-the-word-addict_b_9617660.html  

About Me and My Blog

Addiction

I chose to create my blog based around addiction (primarily substance abuse), this is an interest of mine for many reasons. From a young age I was intrigued on how addiction and substance abuse affects individuals, families and communities.  I come from a family with addiction on both sides and have decided to make it my career to help others save themselves from this disease. My major is Community Health Studies and my minor is psychology. I plan on using my degree to successfully build a career in Substance Abuse Counseling.


About me: I have a lot of interests such as music, art and fashion. My blog will focus around addiction, but I will also make it personal by adding things personal to me such as art!