Harm Reduction

We believe all clients have the potential to improve if not recover from substance abuse and live a 'clean' lifestyle. Our approach toward this goal is pragmatic in that we accept and use the following harm reduction features in our treatement approach.

Harm reduction is a health-centred approach that seeks to reduce the health and social harms associated with alcohol and drug use, without necessarily requiring that users abstain. Harm reduction is a non-judgmental response that meets users “where they are” with regard to their substance use rather than imposing a moralistic judgment on their behaviours. As such, the approach includes a broad continuum of responses, from those that promote safer substance use, to those that promote abstinence.

The following are some features of harm reduction:

• Humane Values: The substance user’s decision to use alcohol and other drugs is accepted as his or her choice; no moralistic judgment is made, either to condemn or to support use of substances, regardless of level of use or mode of intake. The dignity and rights of the person who uses alcohol and other drugs are respected.
• Hierarchy of Goals: Most harm reduction programs have a hierarchy of goals; the most pressing needs are addressed first.

Because harm reduction demands that interventions and policies are designed to reflect a specific individual and community needs, there is no universal definition of or formula for implementing harm reduction. Rather, harm reduction strategies work with individuals and communities to engage in safer activities, regardless of the nature of present activities. If you or someone you know needs access to harm reduction supplies, please contact NARSF (Nanaimo), AIDS Vancouver Island (Victoria, Nanaimo, Courtenay, Campbell River and Port Hardy) or your local VIHA Health Unit.