About Harm Reduction
Harm reduction is a public health approach that saves lives by minimizing harm and potential danger. A harm reduction approach meets people where they are at with open arms, acceptance and compassion – not judgment or shame. A harm reduction approach recognizes that every life is valuable and that substance use and addiction are complex and challenging.
People who struggle with addiction need to be supported, not judged. Stigma around drug use can actually cause more deaths, as shamed people can become more reluctant to discuss their challenges with addiction or seek medical help.
At the FNHA, we see drug use as a health issue rather than a moral issue. We encourage you to adopt a harm reduction approach in your life and to have conversations about how to keep yourself, family members and friends safe.
Personal Stories
The FNHA's "Protect Lives. Prevent Overdose." video series features the voices of Indigenous individuals (Kim Calder, Dede Nelson, Andrea Medley, Tracey Morrison and Len Pierre).
Shane Baker's Personal Story of Opioid Recovery (video)
Beynon Family – Julian's Story – (video)
My Heart Breaks (web page)
Resources
Increase the Support. Reduce the Harm. (fourteen posters)
Overdose Prevention FAQs (fact sheet)
5 Myths about Addiction (fact sheet)
Talking about Substance Use (fact sheet)
Start the Conversation about Drug Use: Talk to Your Family and Friends (four posters)
Naloxone: Save Me Steps to Save A Life (poster)
News Stories
A Dangerous Cocktail
Practising Harm Reduction during COVID-19
Drug Use is a Health Issue, Not a Moral Issue
Embracing the Grey Area: Harm Reduction in a Community Context
Government Sites
Stop Overdose
Overdose Prevention and Response in BC
Framework for Action
A Framework for Action: Responding to the Overdose/Opioid Public Health Emergency for First Nations (poster)
First Nations Overdose Data
