Harmful Sterotypes: Addressing Stigma In Colusa County: Rural Woman Calls for Change

Dear Colusa County Health and Human Services,

I urge you to take a leadership role in reducing the stigma surrounding addiction by encouraging Behavioral Health Services to replace the terms “SUBSTANCE ABUSE” and “SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES” with more compassionate terminology on the ColusaCounty.org website.

This change aligns with best practices adopted by behavioral health services in neighboring counties like Butte, Lake, Yuba/Sutter, and Sacramento.

Using the term “abuse” reinforces harmful stereotypes about individuals struggling with substance use challenges.

As a person in long-term recovery, I deeply understand the need for supportive, non-judgmental language.

I respect the great work ‘health and human services’ does in our community, and I hope you will support this important step toward changing the narrative around addiction.

Sincerely,

Susan M. Wagenaar