There is always hope when it comes to people living with addictions. Misconceptions and stigmas can create barriers for those who need help.

That from a panel discussion on Ending Addiction Stigma hosted by Memorial University as a part of National Addictions Week.

The panel included a range of medical professions and people with lived experience.

Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Heather Quinlan says that one misconceptions she often hears is that addiction is a choice.

The panelists agreed that nobody is hopeless, and that everyone with a heartbeat is capable of recovering from their addictions.

Quinlan says we need to stop shaming people and offer more support and empathy to those who are struggling.