“You can’t go into treatment if you’re not alive.” That’s the truth behind harm reduction. It’s not about enabling drug use — it’s about keeping people alive long enough to have a chance at recovery. Patrick was introduced to heroin after a sports injury led to pain pills. Years later, he’s homeless on Chicago’s streets, battling addiction and painful wounds caused by xylazine — a powerful animal tranquilizer now mixed into street drugs. He’s been through treatment more times than he can count.

Catherine is a person in recovery and a harm reduction advocate. She shares her story to help others seek the help they need, because together, we can reduce the stigma. Hear more stories at Michigan.gov/UNITEDMI. #UNITEDMI #overcomingaddictionstigma | Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

Integrate harm reduction principles into the treatment and care of adults with substance use disorders. Learn more at the NYSDOH - New York State Health Department AI Substance Use Harm Reduction in Medical Care Guideline. Find it at suguidelinesnys.org/substance-use-harm-reduction #HIVguidelines #health #drugs #healthcare | hivguidelines.org