Speaking from experience: the case for openness about drug use among researchers

Background: Researchers with lived or living experience of their subjects of study are uniquely positioned to generate impactful insights by integrating experiential and scholarly knowledge. However, people researching substance use face challenges that may prevent them from actively using their experience in their scholarship. Methods: In this commentary, we review the issues facing researchers with lived/living experience of drug use and how these can be addressed. Results: Many drug researchers report using illicit drugs, but stigma and systemic barriers discourage disclosure. Greater openness in the substance use field requires a collective effort from researchers and institutions to actively value and support those who disclose lived/living experience. This would promote inclusivity, reduce stigma, and strengthen the field through more impactful and reflexive work. Conclusion: Creating an environment where researchers can safely disclose lived/living experience of drug use is essential to harnessing the unique insights of these scholars and fostering more ethical, inclusive, and impactful research on substance use.