Identify a common barrier to recovery faced by individuals.

The stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders is a prevalent barrier to recovery for many individuals. This stigma can manifest in various ways, including negative perceptions from society, fear of judgment, discrimination, and internalized feelings of shame. As a result, individuals may feel isolated or reluctant to seek help due to the fear of being labeled or marginalized. This can delay or prevent them from accessing the support and treatment they need for recovery.

In contrast, availability of support groups and access to treatment facilities generally facilitate recovery by providing necessary resources and community support. A lack of interest in recovery could be a personal challenge but does not encompass the societal and emotional barriers that stigma presents, making stigma a more pervasive issue affecting many individuals in their journey toward recovery.