Analysing patterns of AOD use in regional Australia: Impacts of stigma and discrimination on access to services.
Background: There is increasing local, national, and international attention on the ways in which stigma and discrimination can create barriers to treatment, contributing to wide-ranging, often acute issues for those who misuse alcohol and other drugs, their families, and the wider community. In regional Australia, such substance misuse is an increasing problem (often outstripping urban consumption rates), despite deterrent efforts associated with global processes of criminalisation. Greater focus is needed on the role stigma plays in this context, and the enablers/barriers to seeking treatment.
Goals/Methods: This research examines perceptions regarding AOD use and impacts of stigma on people who use drugs (PWUDs) and access to services in regional communities in Victoria and South Australia (Colac, Shepparton and Mount Gambier). The project uses a mixed-method approach; this presentation explores its co-design and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders from three selected regional communities (including AOD workers, nurses, Victoria Police).
Preliminary findings: Preliminary findings from one regional town (Mount Gambier) reveal stigma and discrimination within the media, CJS and wider community, resulting in delays in opening of AOD treatment centres, difficulty hiring staff, individuals avoiding treatment due to fear of identification, and ultimately, forcing them to travel outside the community for treatment (if they can afford it). Findings show specific challenges and impacts of stigma in a regional town where ‘everyone knows everyone’ and where media have significant influence. Conversely, there are some avenues revealed that could reduce stigma and barriers to treatment seeking.
Implications: As one of the first studies on AOD-related stigma in regional Australia this has broad social, cultural and health implications, regarding where, how, and to what extent stigma impacts the lives of PWUDs in regional communities. This work may guide future strategies that seek to reduce drug-related stigma and the response of AOD support services in regional communities.
