Harm reduction is an approach to treating those with alcohol and other substance-use problems that does not require patients to commit to complete abstinence before treatment begins. Instead, an array of practical strategies are deployed to reduce the negative health and social consequences of substance use, and psychotherapy aims to change behavior according to the goals of each patient, whether
What Is Harm Reduction? (Plain Language Explanation)
Harm Reduction refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Harm Reduction
- Symptoms: The specific ways harm reduction shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen harm reduction
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When harm reduction occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Harm Reduction
- Harm Reduction is far more common than most people realize
- Harm Reduction is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with harm reduction see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about harm reduction is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing harm reduction, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.