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harm reduction
Harm reduction refers primarily to public health policies designed to lessen the negative effects associated with substance use and sex, such as overdose and sexually transmitted infections.
Harm reduction principles can also be applied to any situation that aims to lessen harm done, e.g. Mobile Crisis Response Teams.
Harm reduction strategies always include meeting people where they are with kindness, respect, and compassion.
narcan
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Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a life-saving medication used to rapidly reverse opioid overdoses. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, displacing opioids like heroin or fentanyl, and restoring normal breathing.
Available as a nasal spray or injection, Narcan can be administered by anyone, including first responders and bystanders. Its timely use can prevent fatal overdoses, making it a critical tool in addressing the opioid crisis.
Preventing sexually transmitted infections is harm reduction
Preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through the use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), and other preventative medicines, align with harm reduction principles by focusing on minimizing the negative health impacts associated with sex.
Harm reduction strategies prioritize practical interventions that protect individuals' health without demanding specific behavioral change. PrEP and PEP provide proactive and reactive measures to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, empowering individuals to take control of their health while engaging in their chosen behaviors safely.
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This approach emphasizes health and dignity, recognizing the complexity of human behavior and promoting informed decision-making and access to medical resources.