OUTLINE

Objectives

Introduction

Definition

Harm reduction strategies, goals and principles

Current harm reduction practices

Clinicians role in harm reduction

Harm reduction practice in DATER, FNPN, Benin.

Recommendations

Conclusion

References.

INTRODUCTION

Harm reduction is client- centered philosophy that engages clients in the process of behavioural change even if they are not motivated to pursue abstinence from substance use.

Often times abstinence is not feasible, so the need to practice safer ways of using drugs.

Drug use has become a major public and mental health challenge of which we cannot shy away from.

It is a therapy rather than a cure.