Stigmatization of people with alcohol use disorders: An updated systematic review of population studies

Abstract

Background We summarize research on the public stigmatization of persons with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in comparison with other mental health conditions and embed the results into a conceptual framework of the stigma process. Methods We conducted a systematic search using Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed and PsycINFO (via Ovid), and Web of Science for population‐based studies on the public stigma in AUD and at least 1 other mental health condition, published between October 1, 2010 and December 20, 2020, thus including all studies published since the last systematic review on this topic. The study is registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42020173054). Results We identified 20,561 records, of which 24 met the inclusion criteria, reporting results from 16 unique studies conducted in 9 different countries. Compared to substance‐unrelated mental disorders, persons with AUD were generally less likely to be considered mentally ill, while they were perceived as being more dangerous and responsible for their condition. Further, the public desire for social distance was consistently higher for people with AUD. We found no consistent differences in the public stigma toward persons with AUD in comparison with other substance use disorders. Conclusion The stigmatization of persons with AUD remains comparatively high and is distinct from that of other substance‐unrelated disorders.

Clinicians’ perspectives and perceived barriers to caring for patients with alcohol use disorder and cirrhosis

“…Stigma from healthcare providers has been found to significantly contribute to negative perceptions of people with substance use disorders and sub-optimal care [ 49 , 50 ]. Although several participants acknowledged existing personal and systems-level stigma towards individuals who have substance use disorders (including AUD), the views expressed in the interviews suggest significant work needs to be done to reduce stigma and improve outcomes and experiences for people affected by substance use disorders.…”

Acceptability of Personal Sensing Among People with Alcohol Use Disorder: Observational Study

“…To this end, we assessed participants' choices/behaviors about both participating in the study and providing raw data streams for each method and their subjective perceptions of each sensing method. We focused on participants with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder because they might have been expected to be less willing to share sensitive, private information due to the stigma associated with their disorder [65]. However, if these sensing methods were acceptable to them, highly promising opportunities are now emerging to address their largely unmet treatment needs [66] with technological solutions that include digital therapeutics combined with personal sensing [67].…”

Stigmatization of people with alcohol and drug addiction among Turkish undergraduate students

“…The negative impact of stigmatization towards individuals with mental illness have been reported in numerous studies ( Kilian et al, 2021 , Livingston and Boyd, 2010 ). For example, in a meta-analysis study among people with mental illness including samples of substance use disorders, Livingston and Boyd (2010) found stigma to be associated with lower empowerment, lower self-efficacy, lower social support, reduced adherence to treatment, diminished hope, and higher symptom severity.…”

“…Stigma is likely to exacerbate these negative effects because it is a significant barrier to accessing health care and drug treatment services ( Kilian et al, 2021 ). Not seeking professional help may lead to drug addiction becoming chronic and lead to young people with this condition being socially excluded.…”