Rep. Ted Budd Introduces Resolution to End Stigma of Substance Abuse Treatment and Recognize Addiction as a Disease

Statement

Today, U.S. Representative Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced a House resolution on substance abuse treatment that does three things:

-Recognizes addiction as a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual's life experience.

-Supports evidence-based treatment approaches for substance use disorder that address the biological, psychological, and social aspects of the disorder.

-Supports efforts to prevent and destigmatize substance use disorder and addiction.

Rep. Budd said in a statement:

"The opioid crisis is the biggest public health crisis facing our country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 70,000 Americans died from a drug overdose in 2017, making drug overdose one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Unfortunately, many people struggling with addiction do not seek the treatment they need because of the stigma surrounding substance abuse treatment and for a fear of being judged. Substance abuse treatment is essential in helping people recover from drug addiction and plays a key role in preventing relapse. We must do everything in our power to destigmatize substance abuse treatment and encourage more people to seek help when they most need it. I am proud to introduce a resolution that accomplishes these goals."

Paul H. Earley, MD, DFASAM, President of The American Society of Addiction Medicine said in a statement:

"The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) applauds Congressional leaders for recognizing addiction as a chronic, treatable medical disease and for resolving to ensure that high-quality, evidence-based addiction treatment is available to all Americans who need it. Public acknowledgement by our nation's policy leaders is important to ongoing efforts to destigmatize addiction, address this disease compassionately and effectively, and save lives."

This bill is also endorsed by: American College of Medical Toxicology, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine, American Psychological Association, American Society of Addiction Medicine, A New PATH (Parents for Addiction Treatment & Healing), Center on Addiction, Faces & Voices of Recovery, National Council for Behavioral Health, National Health Care for the Homeless Council, National Safety Council, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, SMART Recovery, Shatterproof, Society of Physician Assistants in Addiction Medicine, Young People in Recovery.

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