Guidance for Using Non-Stigmatizing Imagery for Substance Use Disorders and Legal Involvement
Modifying imagery used to describe and represent individuals with a substance use disorder or criminal legal involvement is an intervention that researchers, institutions, and other perceivers can implement. Stigmatizing imagery can contribute to the stereotypes of addiction and potentially trigger trauma or relapse among individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder or who have involvement in the legal system.
This publication provides recommendations on imagery to use—and imagery to avoid—when developing publications, presentations, educational materials, and other communications products. The original guidance in this publication was informed by a focus group conducted by JCOIN’s Coordination and Translation Center (CTC) in December 2020, and interviews with individuals with lived experience with substance use disorder and criminal legal involvement.
In May 2026, the guide was revised following additional review and recommendations from JCOIN’s Community-Engaged Research Resource Center (CERRC) and members of the JCOIN Community Advisory Board (CAB). The JCOIN CAB is comprised of individuals with lived experience of substance use disorders and involvement across various points of the criminal legal system. Their perspectives and expertise helped ensure that the guidance reflects respectful, accurate, person-centered, and non-stigmatizing visual representations.