in 2023, 90% of drug poisonings occurred in which provinces?
bc, alberta, ontario
These provinces are significantly impacted by drug-related issues.
four pillar approach to opioid crisis
1. prevention and education
- greater access to safe injection sites, inc awareness of naloxone/other harm reduction strategies
- investment in programs that support families and address youth mental health
2. harm reduction
- range of accessible services
3. treatment and healing centres
- comprehensive integrated treatment programs
4. community safety
- inc awareness of good samaritan act
- policing associations recognize substance use disorder as a PH issue
what is the primary focus of harm reduction?
reducing harm while substance use continues
Harm reduction acknowledges that abstinence may not be a realistic goal for all users.
true or false: stigma can lead to individuals being less likely to seek treatment and health care services
TRUE, stigma and discrimination can create barriers to accessing necessary services
what are some common drivers of stigma regarding substance use?
- poor willpower or moral failure
- dangerous and reckless behavior
- substance use not being a real illness
These beliefs contribute to societal stigma against people who use drugs.
what can stigma look like?
negative media portrayals; social avoidance and exclusion by others; discrimination in housing (e.g., denial of applications, evictions); failure to accommodate employees who use substances
What does harm reduction NOT aim to do?
fix people, harm reduction focuses on minimizing harm rather than enforcing abstinence
List some practices of harm reduction.
- Needle Exchange Programs
- Overdose Prevention Programs
- Street outreach
- Education
- Replacement Therapies
- Consumption and Treatment Services
- Safer Supply Programs
- Decriminalization of illicit substances
These practices aim to reduce the risks associated with substance use.
what is the impact of stigma in health care for people who use drugs?
- delayed use of health services
- concealment of substance use
- loss of work and limited access to leadership positions
- inc risk of poorer physical health
- inc risk of homelessness
- poorer health outcomes
Stigma can lead to significant barriers in accessing care and support.
fill in the blank: harm reduction is an approach aimed at reducing the _______ and harmful effects associated with substance use.
risks
This approach is considered realistic and humane.
what are the principles of harm reduction?
- founded on principles of autonomy, dignity, choice, acceptance, universal respect and unconditional positive regard
- accepts drug use as part of society
- ensures a voice for people who use drugs
- recognizes context and intersectionality
- non-judgmental service provision
- acknowledges real harm associated with drug use
These principles guide the implementation of harm reduction strategies.
examples of harm reduction strategies
education, street outreach, needle exchange programs, safe consumption sites, safe supply, decriminalization
what is the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act?
a law that provides legal protection to individuals who assist someone experiencing a drug overdose
This act encourages people to seek help without fear of legal repercussions.
what is the role of language in harm reduction?
- language can be a barrier to seeking care
- labels such as addict dehumanize people
Using respectful and accurate terminology is crucial in reducing stigma.
What is the Peterborough Safer Supply Program known for?
- reducing illicit fentanyl use
- reducing overdoses and medical complications
Data analysis shows significant positive outcomes for participants.
What does harm reduction in health care aim to minimize?
harmful effects of substance use
This approach is essential for improving health outcomes for individuals who use drugs.
