Risk Reduction

Reducing risk, known as harm reduction, is a method of prevention that empowers individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) to be as safe as they can while choosing to use substances. Providing individuals with SUD with opportunities to learn how to reduce risk has shown to reduce rates of contracting and transmitting infections and diseases, such as Hepatitis C, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections. Engaging in harm reduction practices, such as exchanging used syringes for new ones at a Syringe Services Program, also often provides individuals with SUD the opportunity to connect with overdose education, Narcan/Naloxone distribution, referrals to treatment, and testing for as Hepatitis C, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.

Check out the Harm Reduction Coalition, “an extensive and diverse network of allies who challenge the persistent stigma faced by people who use drugs and advocate for policy and public health reform”, to learn more about advocacy work, educational and programmatic efforts, and policies that support and educate individuals with SUD to stay as safe as possible.