Reducing Stigma Through Courageous Conversations

Open discussions help break down the stigma associated with substance use disorders, behavioral health issues, and other social challenges. By sharing experiences and perspectives, we foster a more understanding and compassionate community.

• Just Say Something: Just Start Talking – https://justsaysomethingsc.org/just-start-talking/
• Able SC: Customized professional trainings to assist you with providing access to people with disabilities – https://www.able-sc.org/get-support/accessibility-consultations/professional-training-and-speaking/
• SC Office of Rural Health – Community Conversations on Opioid Use Disorder and Empathy in Action-a walk in our shoes
• Walt’s Waltz Stigma-Free Environment – empowers organizations to foster inclusive, supportive spaces that normalize mental health discussions, promote awareness, and actively combat stigma, ultimately creating a more compassionate and understanding community for individuals facing mental health challenges.

These conversations educate community members about the realities and complexities of substance use disorders and other issues. Increased awareness leads to better support and resources for those affected.

• Just Say Something: Power Collective – https://powercollectivesc.com/
• SC Department of Health: Substance Use Prevention Resources – https://dph.sc.gov/diseases-conditions/substance-use-prevention-resources

Bringing people together creates a sense of community and support. Individuals and families dealing with substance use disorders often feel isolated, and these conversations can help them connect with others who understand and care.

• US Department of Veterans Affairs – You Can Start a Social Group for Veterans
• Upstate Warrior Solution: Event Calendar – https://upstatewarriorsolution.org/monthly-events/

Engaging various stakeholders, who by working together, can develop comprehensive and effective solutions to address community challenges.

Providing a platform for individuals with lived experiences to share their stories empowers them and validates their experiences. It also helps us to see them as valuable members of the community rather than just their struggles.

• Gateway/Clubhouse International: Member Success Story – https://clubhouse-intl.org/chimere-fulfilling-my-dreams/
• Gateway/Greenville Homeless Alliance: Stories of Hope – https://www.gvlhomes4all.org/blog-archive/gateway-ritas-story
• Gateway/Greenville Homeless Alliance: Stories of Hope – https://www.gvlhomes4all.org/blog-archive/pendleton-place-jrs-story
• Gateway: Real People, Real Outcomes – https://gateway-sc.org/our-impact/
• Gateway: Media Coverage – https://gateway-sc.org/in-the-news/

Community conversations can influence local policies and practices. When community members voice their concerns and suggestions, it can lead to meaningful changes in how services are provided and how issues are addressed.

• Children’s Trust of South Carolina: Training on Adverse Childhood Experiences – https://scchildren.org/resources/adverse-childhood-experiences/

Hearing success stories and learning about resources can inspire hope and resilience in individuals and families facing difficulties. It reminds them that recovery and improvement are possible.

• Just Say Something: Parenting Brochures – https://justsaysomethingsc.org/our-parenting-brochures/

These conversations promote inclusivity and ensure that all voices are heard. Diverse perspectives enrich the dialogue and lead to more holistic and effective solutions.

• Half a Sorrow Foundation: Safety Plans for Suicide Prevention – https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1h3FtyX3VU9kSOzLHQP6DaLqdkdv37Nuz
• Recovery Friendly Workplaces