According to the Cambridge Dictionary of the English Language, "stigma" is defined as "A strong feeling of disapproval that most people in a society have about something, especially when this is unfair." Throughout history, vulnerable populations and individuals have often been stigmatized and "othered." Stigma disproportionately influences health outcomes and the mental well-being of individuals who experience a substance use disorder by creating barriers to engaging in early intervention, treatment, and effective recovery.
This presentation will explore the root causes and the unjust consequences of stigma. Participants will investigate best practices prevention practitioners can use to identify, critically examine, and overcome personal biases and reduce the stigma associated with SUDs while promoting resilient families, organizations, and communities.
By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:
Nigel Wrangham, CADC II, CPS has been a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Level II and a Certified Prevention Specialist since 2000. In addition, he has been a preschool teacher, a group manager in a halfway house for federal prisoners on parole, a parenting educator for families experiencing homelessness, and the National Youth Coordinator for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). For 15 years, Nigel taught university courses in the science of addiction, the history of drugs in America, community organizing, and self-discovery through activities and play. When he worked in Uganda as a photographer documenting the behavior of wild chimpanzees, he also taught forest conservation to young people in local villages.
Nigel has been in private practice as a workshop facilitator and trainer since 2003. His passion is supporting young people to discover and use the tools they need to build the equitable, just, and healthy society they deserve. He works with groups across the United States, sharing prevention, social justice, brain development, and youth leadership skills.
Besides working to help youth find and use their power to become change agents, Nigel spends time at home in Eugene, Oregon, with his wife, his two disobedient cats, and his baby son. When he gets the chance, he listens to rock music way louder than he probably should.
Resources on Stigma from Across the TTC Networks
Contact Clarissa Lam Yuen ([email protected]) if you have additional questions about the content related to this webinar.
