Re: “Methadone clinics in Colorado have doubled in three years, but the state is still short on treatment options,” Feb. 4 news story.
Words matter, and the choice of sensational language in your article on treatment for people with opioid addiction perpetuates the stigma that engulfs far too many people with addiction. The portrayal of “users” lined up for a “fix,” “a swig” to “quench their craving” and withdrawal and help them “kick heroin” so they don’t have to “shoot up” conjures up willfulness. This creates fear, shame and marginalization that prevents people from seeking treatment, society from seeing that real human beings are behind the labels, and regulators and insurers from providing coverage for treatment.
Treatment for opioid addiction can be lifesaving and life changing. You do not need to be more sensational than that.
ٴdz, Denver
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