‘I don’t really want to speak up because they’re on a different level to me’: The stigma of not engaging in trauma talk

Background: The stigma attached to substance use disorder (SUD) can prevent entry into, and engagement with, treatment services. This paper provides an initial exploration into what could be an emerging trend using a case study approach. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 women who have used, or were currently using, residential or community-based addiction services in Cork (Ireland). Results: Some participants reported the well documented stigma attached to SUD as a barrier for entry into, and engaging with, the recovery process. Two participants reported feeling ashamed of being unable to identify specific traumas that could account for their substance use. They felt the stereotype of ‘the addict’ having had a traumatic life did not map onto their experiences, and felt stigmatised by others within recovery for this. Consequently, they questioned whether they had a SUD and should access treatment, and this initially prevented them from engaging in therapy. Conclusion:
This paper does not refute the association between trauma and SUD. Rather it argues that common misunderstandings of trauma and substance use, and increased use of trauma talk, may have contributed to a new form of stereotype that some with SUDs must navigate.