harm reduction presentation 2014
DESCRIPTION
There are many misconceptions about harm reduction. In this presentation, we will debunk the myths, explain what harm reduction is and provide examples of harm reduction in action throughout our province and nation. This presentation also includes how individuals can become volunteers with our agency.TRANSCRIPT
Harm Reduction
Education & Outreach Team at AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan
Refers to an approach designed to reduce the harmful consequences
associated with high risk activities.
We do not try to ‘save’ or ‘rescue’ anyone, we
support them wherever they are without
judgement or assumption
What is harm
reduction?
• North American culture looks at situations of substance abuse as individual problems rather then looking at societal factors
• Most social ills are seen as the result of actions by people who are ‘bad’
• Strong social expectations are not good reasons for making a particular ethical decision
Negative Connotation
to Harm Reduction
“I don’t believe in harm reduction”
“So you don’t believe in seat belts or car seats?”
Regina Harm Reduction in Practice
• Needle Exchange Programs• Condom distribution • Formula for HIV+ pregnant
mothers • Clinic or Hospital Setting
Support • Planned Parenthood Regina• Methadone Programs• Talking Circles • Peer Support Programs• Housing Support
Harm reduction models are evidence-based and are consistently evaluated to show good results and
effectiveness. This means that they are an ideal model for anyone who works with individuals who are engaging in behaviour that puts them at risk for
harm – which some might say involves almost everyone on the planet!
Harm Reduction Principles
• Recognizes the intrinsic value and dignity of all human beings
• Does not judge individuals on the basis of their individual behaviours
• Accepts that isolating people and communities based on moral judgments is harmful
• Enhances social and health programs, disease prevention and education by reducing oppression
• Expects accessible, flexible, culturally responsive and non-judgmental services for all
• Recognizes the rights and abilities of individuals in making their own choices
Human Dignity and Human Rights
• Accepts risk-taking as normal human behaviour
• Recognizes that people have more success in changing behaviours when they make choices that reduce the possibility of harm, rather than totally eliminating harm or risk as their first step towards change
• Identifies a range of risks related to STI, HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C infection and the context in which they occur
• Encourages people to start “where they’re at” in order to protect themselves, their partners and their communities
Values of Harm Reduction
• Challenges the harmful policies and practices that result from myths within and about communities and about risk-taking behaviours
• Challenges the harmful policies and practices that isolate individuals and communities and prevent them from accessing needed services
Make available, support in other forms to meet clients wants and needs
Provide information both verbal and no verbal
Focus on Harms
• Demands that individuals and communities affected be directly involved in organization of strategies for harm reduction
• Recognizes diversity within the community or communities, accepting that there is no one homogenous group
• Contributes to the safety and well-being of the community
Balance
• Recognizes the right for comprehensive, non-judgmental
medical and social services and the fulfillment of the basic needs
of all individuals and communities
• Supports the development and provision of accessible harm
reduction tools and information
Deal with priority issues
Harm Reduction Myths
Myth
Harm reduction programs
enable and/or
promote drug use
Fact
Harm reduction enables people to
make informed choices and encourages safer substance use should
someone decide to use any substance (legal or
illegal)
Myth
It is illegalto give
out needles
FactDistribution of needles and drug equipment is
not a crime.
Police and health care providers share in the
understanding that harm reduction programs use
a harm reduction strategy
Myth
Harm Reduction Programs
mean there will be more
needles found in my community
FactWe encourage users to
return used needles to the program for safe disposal.
Containers are also provided to safely store
needles prior to discarding. With more options
available, needles are less likely to be discarded
unsafely.
Benefits of Harm Reduction Programs
• Reducing harm to those involved and to their family, friends and society
• Reduces the spread of HCV/HIV • Empowers people to choose what is best for
them and when they are ready to take the next step
• Offers opportunity to stabilize their lives • Decreases crime • Increasing access to care and services • Reduces isolation • Increases support system
Harm Reduction:
Building trust, reducing risk!