Harm Reduction
Harm reduction is an approach to addressing substance use and other high-risk behaviors that aims to reduce the harms associated with these behaviors, without necessarily requiring abstinence or complete cessation. Harm reduction recognizes that not everyone is ready or able to stop using substances or engaging in other high-risk behaviors, and that attempting to enforce complete abstinence can be counterproductive or even harmful. Instead, harm reduction seeks to minimize the negative consequences of substance use and other behaviors, while also promoting safety, health, and overall well-being.
Some examples of harm reduction strategies include:
Some examples of harm reduction strategies include:
- Providing clean needles and syringes to people who use injection drugs to reduce the risk of blood-borne infections like HIV and hepatitis C.
- Distributing naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, to people who use opioids and their loved ones.
- Offering drug checking services to help people determine the purity and potency of their drugs and reduce the risk of overdose.
- Providing safer consumption spaces where people can use drugs under medical supervision and with access to support and resources.
- Offering education and resources to help people reduce the harms associated with other high-risk behaviors, such as sex work or driving under the influence.
- It saves lives: Harm reduction strategies can prevent overdose deaths, reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and minimize other health risks associated with substance use and other high-risk behaviors.
- It promotes dignity and respect: By recognizing that people who use substances or engage in other high-risk behaviors are deserving of respect, care, and support, harm reduction promotes human dignity and reduces stigma.
- It supports recovery: Harm reduction can be an important step towards recovery for people who are not yet ready or able to stop using substances or engaging in other high-risk behaviors. By providing resources and support, harm reduction can help people move towards a healthier and more stable life.
- It is evidence-based: Harm reduction strategies are supported by decades of research and have been shown to be effective in reducing harm and promoting health.