As the world grapples with the ever-evolving addiction crisis, there is an urgent need for comprehensive, innovative, and evidence-based strategies to address this public health issue impacting 49 million Americans and their families. Shatterproof, a national leader in improving the way the healthcare system addresses and treats substance use disorders (SUDs) and working to change how society views people with SUDs and reduce SUD stigma and shame, is pioneering approaches aimed at creating generational change. This includes a world where people who use substances or have a substance use disorder (SUD) do not face systemic and social barriers, are treated with compassion, and have the support and tools they need to live a fulfilled life. Shatterproof’s success to date has been amplified through grassroots and grasstops engagement with treatment professionals, community organizations, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and other key stakeholders. While this session will provide a high-level overview of the impactful role Shatterproof has played with the prevention, treatment, and recovery of a substance use disorder through Shatterproof Treatment Atlas and national public policy successes such as the passing of the MATE act, it will focus on the role stigma plays in perpetuating the overdose epidemic. For example, the Shatterproof Addiction Stigma Index (SASI), the most comprehensive survey designed to call increased attention to, measure progress on, and hold our nation accountable to eliminating substance-related stigma, shows that 55% of Americans know someone with a substance use disorder, but 74% do not believe that someone with a substance use disorder is experiencing a chronic medical illness and 48% do not want someone with a substance use disorder as a close friend. These misconceptions and negative attitudes fuel social exclusion, erode self-worth, and ultimately reduce willingness to seek treatment. Participants will engage in a conversation rooted in lived experience to humanize this disease, underscore the widespread impact, and galvanize a multisectoral movement invested in ending the stigma of addiction. 

Shatterproof is a 2024 Concordia Annual Summit Lead Programming Partner.