Why it matters: A new survey conducted by the American Psychiatric Association and Morning Consult found that Americans consider cannabis less dangerous than alcohol, cigarettes, and opioids. However, 47% of respondents believe addiction results from personal weakness, revealing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders.
What they are saying: Respondents claim that technology is the safest category, with only 23% regarding it as very or somewhat unsafe. However, with 75% finding technology addictive, experts encourage educating the public about safe and effective treatments for both substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. Only 58% of respondents were aware of naloxone, which is a life-saving opioid anti-overdose drug, and only 35% reported that they would know how to access it if needed.
The big picture: The survey results provide insight into how to educate the public better, with addiction treatment professionals hoping to emphasize how addiction is a medical condition, not a personal weakness, and that addiction treatment works.
What to watch: With the US opioid epidemic taking a heavy toll, increased awareness regarding naloxone as a life-saving measure is crucial for saving lives.
My take: It’s encouraging to see that the public is recognizing the relative harmlessness of cannabis compared to other substances. However, the stigma surrounding addictive behavior is still prevalent, and initiatives to educate the public on addiction as a medical condition rather than a moral failing can help reduce harmful substance use. With separate research indicating higher rates of substance use disorder among remote workers, technology addiction is a growing concern, and perhaps a conversation that more employers should be having with their employees.
