STIGMA AND ADDICTION SERVICES: EXPERIENCES OF PEOPLE WHO USE DRUGS BY INJECTION OR INHALATION

Background: People using drugs by injection or inhalation (PUDII) are among the most stigmatized in addiction care. Structural, social, or internalized stigma acts as a major barrier to accessing and remaining in services. A recent literature review revealed critical knowledge gaps, including limited focus on inhalation, lack of Canadian data, and underrepresentation of people with lived experience in research. In this presentation, the doctoral research will be introduced as a response to these gaps, with a focus on the lived experiences of PUDII.

Methods: The project follows an interpretive descriptive qualitative design grounded in Corrigan’s stigma theory and Honneth’s theory of recognition. Data will be collected through approximately 30 semi-structured narrative interviews and participatory photovoice with PUDII. Recruitment will occur across urban, rural, and remote regions in Quebec, using purposive and snowball sampling. A participatory validation process involving PUDII and service providers will help refine findings and co-develop practice recommendations.

Results: Preliminary insights from the literature review and community engagement suggest that intersecting stigmas contribute to avoidance or interruption of care, internalized shame, and unmet health needs. The qualitative phase, currently in planning, will explore these dynamics in depth, aiming to identify key stigma-related barriers and community-rooted strategies for engagement. Anticipated findings include key stigma-related mechanisms, interpersonal and institutional barriers, and opportunities for service transformation.

Conclusion: This study will produce actionable knowledge to inform the development of safer, more inclusive, and dignity-affirming addiction services. Its community-based approach enhances clinical applicability and relevance. At the end of this presentation, participants will gain concrete insights into how stigma operates in addiction care settings and how user-informed solutions can foster service transformation and health equity as well as insights into the barriers faced by PUDII and strategies to better recognize and support their lived realities in health and social service settings.