New research reveals that high stigma and misunderstanding are impeding care of those with substance use disorder, a treatable medical condition CHICAGO , Sept. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This Saturday, September 28 , at 8:00 a.m.
, an event to raise awareness about addiction and mobilize Chicagoans to end addiction stigma will be held at Diversey Park at 2601 N. Cannon Drive in Chicago . The event, organized by the national nonprofit Shatterproof and supported by local companies and community-based organizations, is a walk and rally for those impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) to unite and address the pervasive shaming and judgment toward people with this medical condition.
"Everybody knows someone impacted by addiction, whether it be a family member, friend, neighbor or co-worker, and it is time we end the silence, stop the judgment and shame, and bring addiction out of the shadows," said Kirsten Seckler , chief marketing officer for Shatterproof. "Shatterproof is here to convene the many people who have been impacted and the many organizations that are making a difference locally. Saturday's event is a launching point for us to continue raising society's consciousness around this health condition.
" In the U.S., nearly 49 million people ages 12 and older have substance use disorder, with nearly 1 million people in Illinois alone with drug or alcohol use disorders.
At the same time, the majority of U.S. adults demonstrate high levels of addiction stigma.
This is according.
