New York State is rolling out a new public awareness effort to tackle one of the biggest barriers in addiction recovery: stigma.
The Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) launched its “Turn the Page on Stigma” campaign Wednesday, featuring TV ads, billboards, and online outreach aimed at changing how people view addiction and treatment.
“Addiction can affect anyone — friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers,” said OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham. “It’s vital that it’s viewed like other chronic diseases, not a moral failure.”
The campaign comes as national data shows stigma remains a top reason people avoid treatment. A recent federal survey found over 43% of people who didn’t seek help for substance use feared being judged, while more than 34% worried they’d lose their job, housing, or custody of their children.
The new messaging encourages person-first language and emphasizes that people are more than their addiction. OASAS is also updating internal materials and resources to reflect this approach, including a stigma glossary and more inclusive language across its website.
In recent years, the agency has expanded access to services, including mobile treatment units and co-located care centers, to help meet people where they are. Peer support specialists — people with lived experience in recovery — are also playing a larger role in guiding others through the process.
OASAS oversees one of the country’s largest networks of addiction services, reaching more than 731,000 people each year.
New Yorkers looking for help can call the HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) for 24/7 support.
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