AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan
  • HOME
  • ABOUT US
    • Our Board
    • Our History >
      • Memorial Quilts
    • Our Team
    • Our Supporters
  • GET HELP
    • HIV Positive Client Care
    • HIV/STI Testing
    • Needle Exchange
    • Support Groups
  • EDUCATION
    • HIV Basics
    • HCV Basics
    • Safer Sex Basics
    • Harm Reduction
    • Overdose Prevention
    • COVID-19 Factsheet
  • GET INVOLVED
    • Donate
    • Volunteer
    • Events
  • CONTACT US

Harm Reduction

What is Harm Reduction?
​Harm reduction is an evidence-based, client-centered approach that aims to reduce harmful consequences. 
We engage in harm reduction in our everyday lives to minimize a risk, such as wearing a helmet when riding a bike or enforcing seat belts when driving in a car.

A frequent misconception of harm reduction is that it supports, or encourages substance use. However, harm reduction approaches do not presume a specific outcome, which means that abstinence based interventions can also fall within the spectrum of harm reduction goals. Essentially, harm reduction supports the idea that those with addiction or substance use disorder should be treated with dignity and respect and have a wide selection of treatment options in order to make an informed decision about their individual needs and what would be the most effective for them, while also reducing the harms.
How does APSS practice harm reduction?

APSS acknowledges that many individuals coping with substance use disorder may not be in a position to stop using. The harm reduction approach provides an option for users to engage with peers, medical and social services in a non-judgemental way that will ‘meet them where they are.’ This allows for a health oriented response to substance use, and it has been proven that those who engage in harm reduction services are more likely to engage in ongoing treatment as a result of accessing these services. Our harm reduction services align with our mission to reduced blood borne infections such as HIV and HCV, and have decreased the rates of deaths due to drug overdoses.

Our harm reduction services include our Needle Exchange Program and Naloxone training/distribution program. In these programs, we offer information/intervention conversation sessions on topics such as harm reduction, overdose prevention, HIV/HCV/STIs, testing, and treatment in order to enhance skills and knowledge to live safer and healthier lives. These sessions lead to increased knowledge and referrals to testing and treatment.
©2020 AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan Inc
CRA Charitable Number: 118779057 RR0001
​
AIDS Programs South Saskatchewan acknowledges that our organization operates on Treaty 4 land, the traditional lands of the Saulteaux, Cree, Ojibwe, Dakota, Lakota, Nakota, and the homeland of the Metis.