Massachusetts has launched a statewide public awareness campaign to address and reduce the stigma associated with addiction.

The campaign promotes a new website, TalkAboutAddiction.org, which launched Sept. 1 to coincide with Recovery Month, according to Michael Botticelli, Director of the state's Bureau of Substance Abuse Services in the Department of Public Health.

The campaign focuses on five specific addictions: tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs, illegal drugs and gambling.

"It is estimated that 8.7% of Massachusetts residents meet the criteria for substance abuse or dependence on alcohol, yet only one in ten will ever seek treatment," said Botticelli. Many of these people cite the shame, embarrassment and stigma associated with addiction as a major reason for not getting help, he said.
 
According to Botticelli, the campaign's primary objective is to communicate that substance abuse is a chronic disease, not a choice. A key message is "Just as no one chooses to have diabetes, asthma or high blood pressure, no one chooses to have an addiction." The campaign emphasizes that effective treatment for addiction exists, and that the rate of success is similar for other chronic diseases.

The website features "real life" testimonials from recovering addicts, facts designed to challenge common assumptions about addiction, and a variety of resources for individuals, healthcare professionals, employers, and other groups.