What is Harm Reduction?
"Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. Harm Reduction is also a movement for social justice built on a belief in, and respect for, the rights of people who use drugs."
-National Coalition of Harm Reduction
"Harm Reduction is Love"
The 4 Pillars & Evidence-Based Best Practices
The Four Pillars approach is recognized internationally as an effective way to address the harms associated with substance use:
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Prevention
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Treatment
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Law Enforcement reform
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Harm Reduction tactics
Countries who have implemented these measures, including Switzerland and Portugal, have experienced a significant reduction of the spread of preventable chronic disease burden, overdose hospitalizations and overdose deaths. This forms a balanced, solid foundation on which to build a comprehensive & effective community drug strategy.
Prevention
Prevention reduces drug consumption by stopping the next generation from developing unhealthy addictions and unsafe behaviors when using drugs. This means public education, addiction awareness, early addiction identification and more to protect our children and vulnerable populations.
Treatment
Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) and counseling services can help people who are ready to stop using drugs. MAT programs utilize methadone or buprenorphine to wean on opioids and curb the negative effects of opioid withdrawal symptoms. Counseling and other out-patient treatment also provide support to maintain sobriety after the physical addiction has been curbed.
Law Enforcement Reform
Decriminalizing drugs stops the vicious cycle of recidivism and connects vulnerable people to help instead of punishment.
Harm Reduction
Harm reduction techniques and tactics include:
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Public overdose education
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Providing access to counseling and referrals for treatment for infectious disease and substance use disorder
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Distribution of Naloxone, an overdose reversal medication to at-risk individuals and first responders
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Distribution of safe(r) smoking, injection and sex supplies to decrease the spread of preventable diseases such as Hepatitis, HIV and more.
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Reducing stigma associated with substance use and mental health
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Promote hope and healing for individuals and families impacted by drug use