|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Culture is often the most defining factor of our lives. For many, it shapes our personalities and identity. From the traditions we keep alive to our daily communication, the culture that we grow up in has a lasting impact on who we are. But sometimes, the culture we are raised in can contribute to a crisis.
Cultural beliefs influence our perceptions of morality, strengths and weaknesses, and even illnesses. Though these beliefs don’t directly lead to substance abuse, they can guide the way people cope with their pain and stress. Some cultural values around substance abuse and mental disorders can prevent people from finding the help they need, which leaves them susceptible to unhealthy substance use and coping mechanisms.
According to the CDC’s 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), Hispanic high school students reported the highest prevalence of select illicit drug use (16.1%) and prescription opioid misuse (15.1%) compared to the overall high school population (14.0% for both measures) and other racial and ethnic groups.
Stereotypes, misconceptions, and cultural values are some of the biggest factors as to why this is true. These factors begin from childhood. For example, some religions and other systems of beliefs in people’s cultures emphasize the importance of having support from one’s family in all their decisions (SAMHSA). When individuals do not feel fully supported by their families, they may internalize their struggles and feel compelled to handle their problems alone.
Other cultural values can contribute to the exacerbation of people’s disorders by limiting their ability and desire to find help. Stigma within families and communities surrounding substance use disorder can stigmatize people who have an opioid use disorder. It causes people to view their disorder as a moral failure instead of a disease that can be treated. When these stereotypes run rampant in people’s minds, they avoid seeking help as they feel their disorder is untreatable and they would lack support from their community.
These cultural influences aren’t limited to any one ethnic or racial group. They can exist within any family or community, but sometimes are more prevalent in some. The best way to avoid the harms that these stigmas bring is through education. Educating those who believe in toxic behaviors that contribute to substance misuse or by educating them on the proper paths of treatment are all ways we can help improve the support system we grow up around. And by a simple change in mindset, the life of one person can be changed forever.
This article was written as part of a program to educate youth and others about Alameda County’s opioid crisis, prevention and treatment options. The program is funded by the Alameda County Behavioral Health Department and the grant is administered by Three Valleys Community Foundation.
