Dictionary

Harm reduction is an approach to reducing the negative consequences of substance use by focusing on minimizing the harm caused by substance abuse rather than solely trying to eliminate drug use.

Harm reduction strategies can include providing clean needles to prevent the spread of disease, opioid substitution therapy to reduce opioid overdose deaths, or providing safe spaces for drug users to consume their substances. The goal is to reduce substance abuse’s adverse health, social, and economic impacts while also improving the overall well-being of individuals who use drugs.