On 26 June, Dianova International launched its global #SupportNotStigma campaign, which highlights the need for greater understanding, dignity, and support for people living with substance use disorders.

The campaign also includes the Support Not Stigma Manifesto, which calls for a shift from labels and judgement towards empathy, dignity, and support. It challenges the assumptions, language, and attitudes that contribute to stigma and reminds us that stigma is learned through society and can therefore also be changed. By signing the manifesto, individuals and organisations can show their commitment to reducing stigma and promoting more respectful, person-centred approaches that support inclusion and recovery.

Stigma remains a major barrier to prevention, treatment, recovery, and social reintegration. It can discourage people from seeking help, limit access to care, and contribute to isolation and exclusion. Through this campaign, Dianova encourages individuals, organisations, and communities to reflect on how language, attitudes, and everyday behaviours can affect people’s ability to access support and participate fully in society.

As part of the campaign, WFAD contributed an article by Cressida de Witte, Deputy Secretary of WFAD, titled “Support Not Stigma: Why Language, Attitudes, and Systems Matter.” The article explores how stigma operates at different levels, from the individual to institutions, and highlights the importance of respectful language, gender-sensitive approaches, and person-centred support systems that promote prevention, treatment, recovery, and social reintegration.

Read WFAD’s article, Support Not Stigma: Why Language, Attitudes, and Systems Matter, available in English | Castellano | Français.

We encourage our members and partners to explore the campaign, read the manifesto, and add their name by signing it. Together, we can help reduce stigma and promote dignity, understanding, and supportive, evidence-informed approaches for people living with substance use disorders.