Harm Reduction Basics
What does harm reduction mean?
Meeting people where they’re at; reducing risks without requiring abstinence.
Why is it safer to use with others around?
So someone can help in case of overdose.
What is the medication that reverses opioid overdose?
Naloxone (Narcan).
What is the main goal of a Needle Exchange Program?
Reduce disease transmission (HIV/HCV).
True or False: People who use drugs don’t care about their health.
False – people who use drugs do care about their health.
True or False: Harm reduction encourages continued use.
False – harm reduction supports safety and choice, not continued use.
What’s one way to reduce risks when drinking alcohol?
Examples: pace drinks, eat food, hydrate, avoid mixing substances.
What’s the first step if you suspect an overdose?
Check responsiveness and call 911.
True or False: Getting tested regularly is a harm reduction strategy.
True – regular testing is harm reduction.
What’s one respectful, non-stigmatizing phrase to use instead of “addict”?
Examples: “person who uses drugs,” “individual in recovery.”
Name two common harm reduction strategies.
Examples: safe use supplies, overdose prevention, education.
Name one safer smoking practice.
Use clean pipes, avoid sharing equipment, use mouthpieces.
Name two signs of an opioid overdose.
Slow breathing, unresponsiveness, blue lips/nails.
What form of naloxone is easiest for untrained individuals to use?
Nasal spray.
Why is it important to avoid judgment in conversations about substance use?
Judgment prevents honesty and trust, shutting down communication.
What does “meeting people where they’re at” mean in harm reduction?
Respecting clients’ current stage and needs without forcing change.
Why is it important to test drugs before using?
To check for fentanyl contamination and drug strength.
Why is it important to call 911 when you give Narcan & what law protects people from prosecution when calling 911 during an overdose in many states?
Because the person may need more care after Narcan wears off and the Good Samaritan Law.
What is the key principle of Housing First programs that aligns with harm reduction?
Unconditional housing access.
What is “person-first language”? Give an example.
Person-first language emphasizes the person before the condition, e.g., “person with a substance use disorder.”
Explain the difference between abstinence-only treatment and harm reduction.
Abstinence-only requires stopping use; harm reduction reduces risks while supporting choice.
Explain “start low, go slow.”
“Start low, go slow” means starting with a small amount and waiting before using more.
Describe the recovery position and why it’s used.
Recovery position = placing person on their side to keep airway clear and prevent choking.
What is a major barrier to syringe access at pharmacies?
Stigma, ID requirements, and refusal by pharmacists.
Describe how stigma can create barriers to care.
Stigma creates shame, discourages people from seeking care, and creates barriers to treatment.