Addressing Stigma: Destigmatizing Substance Use Disorders and Overdose

Join us for Gwen Lily Learning Series August Edition, "Addressing Stigma: Destigmatizing Substance Use Disorders and Overdose," a virtual event focused on understanding and combating the stigma associated with substance use disorders. This session, with panelists Dr. Elaine Barclay and moderated by Dr. Walter Taylor, will explore key topics such as the definition and impact of stigma, its root causes, and its detrimental effects on recovery and well-being. We'll discuss the importance of non-stigmatizing language, strategies for challenging stigma at various levels, and ways to build empathy and support. Attendees will gain increased awareness, improved communication skills, enhanced empathy, and actionable strategies to foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals in recovery.

Key Topics

Understanding Stigma

• Definition and impact of stigma on individuals with substance use disorders and their families.
• Discussion on how stigma manifests in society and its detrimental effects on access to treatment, recovery, and social support.

Root Causes of Stigma

• Exploring societal attitudes, misconceptions, and stereotypes that contribute to stigma surrounding addiction and overdose.
• Examining historical and cultural factors that have influenced the stigmatization of substance use disorders.

Impact on Recovery and Well-being

• Discussing the barriers to seeking help and accessing treatment due to stigma.
• Highlighting the negative impact of stigma on mental health, self-esteem, and quality of life for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

Language and Messaging

• Emphasizing the importance of using non-stigmatizing language and messaging in discussing addiction and overdose.
• Providing guidelines for communicating about substance use disorders with empathy, compassion, and respect.

Combatting Stigma

• Strategies for challenging and addressing stigma at the individual, community, and societal levels.
• Promoting education, awareness, and advocacy initiatives to reduce stigma and promote acceptance and support for individuals in recovery.

Building Empathy and Support

• Encouraging empathy and understanding towards individuals with substance use disorders and their loved ones.
• Discussing ways to create supportive environments that foster recovery, resilience, and healing without judgment or discrimination.

Desired Outcomes

• Increased awareness and understanding
• Improved communication skills
• Enhanced empathy and compassion
• Actionable strategies to combat stigma

Speaker Bios

Dr. Elaine Barclay

Dr. Elaine M. Barclay is a passionate mental health counselor, educator, and entrepreneur with a deep commitment to fostering well-being in individuals and communities.  Dr. Barclay is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with extensive experience in clinical practice.

 Since 2018, she has served as core faculty at Capella University, teaching and mentoring Master's and Doctoral learners in Human Services. She is also the Internship Coordinator, guiding students through their practical training. In addition to her academic work, Dr. Barclay is the President/CEO of Barclay Consulting Services, LLC, providing mental health counseling, consultation, and coaching services.

 Committed to mental health education on a broader scale, Dr. Barclay reaches out through her YouTube channel, "The Community of We with Dr. B," where she discusses various mental health topics in an engaging and informative way.

 Her passion for mental health extends to her blog, also at www.wearebarclaycs.com, where she delves deeper into mental health issues and empowers individuals on their journey towards well-being. Dr. Barclay's dedication extends beyond her professional life. She is a wife, mother of four, and grandmother of three, believing in the importance of strong personal connections.

Dr. Walter Taylor

Dr. Walter Taylor currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority under the leadership of Carol Lucky, CEO. In this role, he works with the senior leadership team to plan and provide NTHBA’s behavioral health services in the six-county region of Dallas, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro, and Rockwall. Dr. Taylor also serves in a part-time capacity as an adjunct professor of business and political science at Paul Quinn College. Throughout his career, Dr. Taylor has served in the public behavioral health sector and pastoral ministry. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Oklahoma Christian University, a Master of Arts in History and Theology from Abilene Christian University, a Master of Public Administration, and a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Public Policy from the University of Texas in Arlington. He is also board-certified in Healthcare Management as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).