What is Addiction?
We can’t discuss harm reduction without first identifying what addiction is. Most commonly addiction is known as overusing substances like alcohol or maybe even illicit drugs like cocaine or crystal meth, but addiction can take many forms. Addiction actually has less to do with the substance and more to do with the behaviour. By definition, addiction is engaging in a behaviour despite the negative consequences it causes. This means that activities like gambling, shopping and eating can all be considered addictive behaviours. Often these behaviours serve a purpose to the individual, which is why it is important to understand their function and avoid making any judgements on the individual.
When we are talking about addiction we also need to talk about withdrawal, and this is where harm reduction can come into play. No matter what the addictive behaviour is, there are both negative and positive consequences when abstaining from that behaviour. For example, if someone stops consuming alcohol, they may be at risk of physical health concerns like seizures. Or if someone stops gambling, they can experience psychological health concerns like anxiety or irritability. Withdrawal is inevitable, but there are ways to cope, which we discuss further in the article when we take a look at the harm reduction approach.
What is Harm Reduction?
As we now know, addiction involves behaviours that result in negative consequences to the individual. Harm reduction aims to mitigate these negative consequences through adaptive strategies based in dignity and respect. This means meeting the individual where they are at with their level of engagement with the behaviour while moving toward their goal. Surprisingly, not every individual’s goal is abstinence, which is stopping the behaviour altogether. So, for these individuals, a harm reduction approach is a good fit because it allows them to get support, but at their speed. And as we mentioned, for many individuals these behaviours serve a purpose. Harm reduction looks to acknowledge the benefit that the addictive behaviour serves the individual and allows the individual to engage to receive that benefit, but in the safest way possible. For example, someone may want to continue to use substances, but reduce their use or use in a safer way. In this case, we would honour that individual’s choice and provide them with information on how to reduce their use safely and make suggestions of how they can use safely, like using with a friend. The aim of harm reduction is just as the name implies, we want to incur the least amount of harm while the individual works toward their addiction goals.
How I Utilize the Harm Reduction Approach
Even before entering the field of psychotherapy, I used a harm reduction approach. Whether it was providing safe use supplies to individuals accessing shelter or talking about safer ways to engage in sexual intercourse, I have always approached anyone looking for support with their addiction in an open and dignified manner. For example, if you disclose an addictive behaviour during session, I will meet you with compassion and curiosity. We will explore what addiction looks like for you and what purpose it serves in your life. Then we will determine your goals around the addictive behaviour and collaborate to create a plan that takes you closer to achieving those goals.
While I do not condone engagement in risky behaviour, I do tailor my support to help those that do to reduce their risk. This is reflective of the harm reduction approach that, as mentioned, meets people wherever they are in their recovery journey. So, together, we will discuss ways to make the addictive behaviour safer as well as gather resources to prevent or reduce risk.
Takeaways
- Addiction can involve a large number of behaviours, not just substance use.
- Harm reduction meets individuals wherever they are in their recovery journey.
- Harm reduction empowers individuals on their recovery journey by incorporating autonomy and dignity into its approach.
If you or someone you know has noticed a shift in your behaviour that you want to address, reach out to book a free consultation to explore your options and get support.
References:
Drucker, E., Anderson, K., Haemmig, R., Heimer, R., Small, D., Walley, A., ... & van Beek, I. (2016). Treating addictions: Harm reduction in clinical care and prevention. Journal of Bioethical Inquiry, 13(2), 239-249. DOI 10.1007/s11673-016-9720-6
Sinnott-Armstrong, W., & Pickard, H. (2013). What is Addiction? Fullford Press.
