The words we use when talking about persons with an alcohol use disorder are important. Most of the words we see in the media and in social media assign blame, create shame and promote stigma. 

We will be asking the media to embrace change as they have in the past as they write about other disabilities. We would like to see all media transition to 'person-first' language, which separates the person from the disease and portrays alcohol use disorder as a chronic brain disease, not a moral failing. The worst language usually occurs in the headline, where strong language attracts attention. We are developing material for media workshops to assist them in understanding how the language people see perpetuates stigma against alcohol use disorder. 

Below, on the left, we offer correct words and phrases we hope people will start to use. On the right, we show you some of the worst examples we have found to date. If you see insensitive language, send us a link. We will be happy to contact the author and suggest they change their words.