Anyone can struggle. Everyone can heal.

Mesa County Public Health wants to empower people who are struggling with substance use disorder to know recovery is possible.

Through the Anyone can struggle. Everyone can heal. campaign, we are sharing unique stories from people in Mesa County about their journeys of recovery.

We also want to educate the community about reducing stigma surrounding substance use disorders and the impact words can have on someone who is struggling.

Watch additional videos in our playlist on YouTube.

Stigma is the main reason people do not seek treatment for substance use disorders and mental health issues.

Stigma is often expressed through the use of language. Referring to someone as an "addict," "junkie," or "drug abuser" can be dangerous and damaging in ways people don't realize.

Stigma often comes from a lack of understanding or fear, but it can prevent people from getting the help they need.

Public stigma

The public endorses negative stereotypes and prejudices that results in discrimination against people with mental health conditions.

Self stigma

A person with a mental illness or substance-use disorder internalizes public stigma.

Perceived stigma

The idea that others have negative beliefs about people with mental illness or substance-use disorders.

Label avoidance

A person chooses not to seek treatment to avoid being assigned a stigmatized label. Label avoidance is one of the most harmful forms of stigma.

Stigma by association

The effects of stigma are extended to someone linked to a person with a mental illness or substance-use disorder difficulties. This type of stigma is also known as “courtesy stigma” and “associate stigma”.

Structural stigma

Institutional policies or other societal structures result in decreased opportunities for people with mental illness.

Health practitioner stigma

A health professional allows stereotypes and prejudices about mental illness or substance-use disorders to negatively affect a patient's care.

Contact Grand Valley Connects if you need help finding resources in Mesa County. Visit the Grand Valley Connects website or call 970-683-2663.