An opioid overdose requires immediate medical attention. Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know exhibits any of the symptoms.

×
Search
Close this search box.
Find Naloxone

Harm Reduction

HARM REDUCTION

HARM REDUCTION IS FOR EVERYONE

Harm reduction is not just for people who use substances – it is for everyone. The goal of harm reduction is to keep people safe, healthy, and alive. Harm reduction is a public health practice that aims to reduce the harmful effects of certain behaviors.

MEETING YOU WHERE YOU ARE

Harm reduction also makes substance use safer and supports recovery. Harm reduction includes tools like testing strips, naloxone, and syringe programs. It also includes treatment with or without medication and long-term support groups. Harm reduction helps people improve their behaviors without judging them. It works to reduce the shame around substance use and recovery.

HARM REDUCTION METHODS

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT HARM REDUCTION

Myth 1: Harm Reduction is Only for Substance Use

Fact: Harm reduction is not just for substance use. Wearing a helmet and having a sober driver are also examples.

You do not have to use substances to benefit from harm reduction!

Myth 2: Harm Reduction Promotes Risky Behaviors
Fact: Harm reduction recognizes that people do risky things, but it does not promote those behaviors. It offers support without judgement.
Myth 3: Harm Reduction Works Against Recovery

Fact: Harm reduction does not stop recovery. It helps keep people safe and can connect them to recovery resources.

Harm reduction does not expect you to avoid substances completely, but it helps if that is your goal. It supports people who are in recovery or trying reduce their substance use.

Myth 4: Harm Reduction Makes Neighborhoods Less Safe

Fact: Harm reduction does not increase crime. Efforts like syringe service programs actually help keep communities safer and cleaner.

ABOUT US

Brought to you by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (MN DHS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in partnership with other state agencies participating in the Minnesota State Substance Abuse Strategy.

Links

Social Media

Facebook Instagram Youtube Reddit-alien Tiktok
GET HELP NOW
  • Substances
  • Dangers
  • Naloxone
  • Community Care
  • How to Help
  • Road to Recovery
  • Video Stories
  • About Us

Resources