Regardless of why people use substances, and how much they use, any substance use comes with its risks. Harm reduction strategies can be used to reduce those risks and keep people safer. Harm reduction is a broad term that refers to policies, practices or approaches that are used to reduce the risks of substance use without requiring the person to stop using substances; like having a designated driver when drinking alcohol, using cannabis products lower in THC or with a higher CBD to THC ratio, not using substances alone and carrying a naloxone kit.
Harm reduction when using alcohol:
- Alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Avoid drinking games
- Decide, in advance, how many drink you want to drink and stick to it
- Keep track of how many drinks you are having
- Pace drinks to 1 or fewer per hour
- Stay with the same group of friends while drinking
- Use a designated driver, ride-share or transit
- Eat before and/or during drinking alcohol
- Drink water before and while drinking alcohol
- Avoid mixing with other substances, even prescribed medications
Harm reduction when using cannabis:
- Use cannabis that has a high CBD:THC ratio
- Avoid synthetic forms of cannabis like Spice, Kronic, Northern Lights, K2 and Kaos
- Avoid smoking cannabis, choose a different route
- Reduce deep inhales and holding your breath if smoking
- Keep use to occasionally like one day/week or only on the weekends etc.
- Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 6 hours after using cannabis
- Know the source of your cannabis, opt for the regulated market