Student Publications [Scholarly]

Experiences of opioid-related stigma among sexual assault survivors who use opioids in the community

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Background Opioid use is highly stigmatized, yet little is known about how stigma is experienced by community participants who are actively using opioids. Method This qualitative study explored opioid-related stigma among adults who use opioids (N = 17) and have experienced sexual violence, recruited through community outreach and local partnerships. Semi-structured interviews examined experiences of structural, interpersonal, and internalized stigma, and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Five themes emerged regarding opioid use and stigma: (1) pervasive judgment and rejection from family, friends, and colleagues, (2) stigmatizing encounters within healthcare and treatment systems, (3) internalized stigma and cycles of shame, (4) structural barriers that reinforce marginalization, and (5) strategies to resist and counter stigma. Conclusion Findings highlight the multifaceted nature of opioid-related stigma and its role in shaping opioid use, treatment engagement, and recovery trajectories. By centering the voices of individuals actively using non-medical opioids this study underscores the need for stigma reduction interventions that integrate harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and structural reforms . © 2026 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Title

Addictive Behaviors

Publication Date

8-2026

Volume

179

ISSN

0306-4603

DOI

10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108685

Keywords

opioid use; stigma; substance use

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