When giving advice about medication, what should be respected to ensure ethical practice?

Respecting the individual's autonomy and right to make their own decisions is a core principle of ethical practice, particularly in the field of recovery support. This means acknowledging that each person has the right to make informed choices about their own treatment and medication. It emphasizes the importance of providing information and support without imposing one's own beliefs or experiences on the individual.

In recovery-oriented support, fostering a collaborative environment where the individual feels empowered to make decisions helps to build trust and encourages active participation in their own recovery journey. It's essential for recovery support specialists to ensure that individuals have all the necessary information to make informed choices about their medication, while respecting their personal values and preferences.

Although maintaining confidentiality and keeping personal experiences private are important, they do not take precedence over the individual's right to autonomy. Similarly, prioritizing a professional's opinion as the ultimate authority undermines the individual's ability to make their own informed choices.