Myth: Harm reduction only enables more drug use.
Fact: If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use, harm reduction can help. Rather than focusing solely on stopping drug use, harm reduction prioritizes safety, health, and dignity. It includes life-saving strategies like supervised consumption sites, needle exchange programs, and access to naloxone to prevent overdoses. The goal is not to encourage or enable drug use but to reduce the risks—like overdose, the spread of infectious diseases, and unsafe drug practices. Research consistently shows that harm reduction programs do not increase drug use; instead, they help people stay safer, access healthcare, and seek treatment when they’re ready.
Why It Matters: Substance use is complicated, and no one sets out to struggle with it. The overdose crisis has affected too many lives, and harm reduction is one of the most effective ways to prevent more loss. It also helps prevent the spread of diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C, which are linked to intravenous drug use.
You’re not alone if you’ve ever felt judged, dismissed, or afraid to seek help. Many people who use substances avoid seeking support because of stigma or fear of legal consequences. But harm reduction provides care without judgment, creating trust and making it easier to access services when you’re ready.
Harm reduction isn’t about ignoring the risks of substance use—it’s about meeting people where they are and ensuring they have the tools, information, and support to stay as safe as possible.
How We Work: At Cedar Strong, we believe in harm reduction because we believe in people. No matter where you are in your relationship with substance use, you deserve respect, support, and access to care.
Our services include education, advocacy, and direct support. We help people connect to healthcare, treatment options, and safer practices. Whether you’re looking for resources for yourself or someone you love, we are here to listen, provide information, and help you take the next step—whatever that means for you.
Harm reduction is about dignity and respect. There are options. If you need support, we’re here to help.
More Information:
- The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) regularly publishes research on harm reduction strategies and their effectiveness. Visit their website for detailed reports and evidence-based resources.
- The BC Centre on Substance Use (BCCSU) offers resources on harm reduction practices and outcomes. Their work in British Columbia has shown how harm reduction approaches can reduce harm and save lives.
- The Public Health Agency of Canada has extensive information about harm reduction programs in Canada and their impact on public health.
- Websites like Harm Reduction International (HRI) offer international perspectives on harm reduction, providing global evidence, tools, and resources.