Episode 45 – Abstinence Versus Harm Reduction
Some nuggets from this episode
- Abstinence may not be a viable option for everyone caught up in addiction (at least not right now). In such cases, harm reduction programs could be a viable alternative.
- Harm reduction can improve the life of a drug abuser enough that this individual is then in a position to choose abstinence.
- Harm reduction does is not the same as harm removal. We believe that abstinence (no longer using any recreational drug) is the best solution for anyone dealing with addiction issues.
A conversation between Chris and Paul Garrigan
In this episode of the podcast, we discuss the differences between harm reduction and abstinence as approaches for dealing with addiction. Here at Hope, we believe that abstinence offers the best solution for those struggling with addiction issues, but is there a place for harm reduction? Some might say that harm reduction ‘enables’ those abusing drugs to keep doing what they are doing, but there is a strong argument for why this approach saves lives and can lead people eventually to abstinence.
Press play below to listen to this week’s show.
Topics covered in this week’s show include:
- What is the difference between harm reduction and abstinence?
- Is it fair to say that most clients have been practicing harm reduction before they came to rehab?
- Is there a more structured way of doing harm reduction?
- Isn’t it important to recognize that it is always harm reduction rather than harm removal?
- Could harm reduction get in the way of a full recovery?
- Could promoting abstinence be unfair or inappropriate?
- Is abstinence a possibility for everyone?
- Is the problem addiction or the fact that people are addicted and don’t want to be addicted?
- Could harm reduction give people the motivation for abstinence?
- On what basis would you recommend harm reduction?
You can also listen to the podcast on iTunes
If you enjoyed the show, don’t forget to share it on social media.Â
Other Topics That Might Interest You
Summertime Blues – Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction Issues
A lack of love for the summertime may just be down to personal preference, but it can also be due to an underlying disorder or because we’ve had bad experiences at this time of year. Summer can bring out the worst in us, and this is particularly the case if we have some kind of addiction issue.
The Tea Ceremony – A Mindfulness Practice with Niina – Episode 52
In this episode of the podcast, we discuss a wonderful meditation practice that can benefit both the person performing the tea ceremony and those observing it.
Ibogaine Rehab in Thailand
There are people who have found ibogaine treatment to be useful in overcoming drug addiction, but it certainly does not appear to work for everyone. There are also potential dangers associated with it that anyone considering it needs to take into account.
Recovery from Covid Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction
Covid 19 has been like a massive storm that has passed through our lives and, at least for some of us, left behind lasting damage. Anxiety issues, depression, and substance abuse may be another obstacle that some of us will need to face.
May Day in Thailand- Stop Yearning for a Better Life and Begin Living It
May is the time of year when one season transforms into another, and this month can also be when you begin your own special transformation.
Easter – A Time for Redemption
Easter is when Christians around the globe celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Recovery offers the chance of a new life following addiction. It is a type of resurrection.
