What is the goal of the harm reduction model for substance use challenges?

• A. Diminished rate of judicial system exposure and incarceration.
• B. Decreased overdose risk and improved access to systems of care.
• C. Enhanced community engagement and relationship building.
• D. Increase in self-assessment of confidence and self-worth.

Answer: (A)

Harm reduction aims to lessen the negative health and social consequences of substance use by meeting people where they are and connecting them to care. The best choice reflects that focus: reducing overdose risk and improving access to systems of care. By prioritizing practical steps like overdose prevention, safer-use guidance, and easier referrals to treatment and support services, harm reduction seeks to minimize harm and improve overall health outcomes, even if abstinence isn’t immediately achieved.

While enhanced community engagement or a boost in self-worth are valuable outcomes, they aren’t the central aim. And reducing interactions with the criminal justice system, though relevant in some contexts, is not the primary objective of harm reduction.