HARM REDUCTION
*A Note on Language
We honor the experiences of participants with lived/living experience by not changing the language people used in these videos. However, some of the videos contain language that can perpetuate stigma toward people with substance use disorders. As healthcare workers, we should use person-first language to reduce stigma and bias. Not doing so leads to worse outcomes and experiences. Please review this NIDA page on person-first language for preferred terms to use when communicating both verbally and in charts.
Harm reduction is critical to addiction care.
Naloxone. Sterile syringes. Fentanyl test strips. Education about reducing drinking. These are all examples of harm reduction that save lives. Harm reduction engages people where they are without judgement. These interventions reduce infections and increase access to treatment.
