Substance Use Harm Reduction Strategies

Harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize the negative health and social impacts of substance use without necessarily requiring abstinence. These strategies include needle exchange programs, supervised injection sites, and the distribution of naloxone (a medication that reverses opioid overdoses). Harm reduction also emphasizes providing education about safer drug use, offering mental health support, and facilitating access to treatment services. Rather than focusing solely on stopping substance use, harm reduction seeks to improve overall quality of life for individuals while they navigate the recovery process. Evidence suggests that harm reduction can be a highly effective approach, particularly for those who are not ready or able to quit substances immediately.