What is harm reduction? Harm reduction includes any behaviors, policies, programs and procedures that reduce the potential harm of a risky behavior. You probably practice harm reduction strategies every day without even knowing it. Seatbelts in cars, expiration dates on food, and wearing sunscreen when you go to the beach or pool are all examples of harm reduction.
When it comes to drug use, harm reduction includes a variety of things that reduce the risk of overdose and reduce the risks of infections, illness, and other dangers posed as a result of drug use. Harm reduction does NOT condone drug use but encourages any positive change. That could be anything from using drugs differently or less often, not sharing supplies, and carrying Naloxone, all the way up to choosing to abstain from drug use completely. According to research by the Centers for Disease Control, people who participate in harm reduction activities are 5 times mores likely to seek help for their drug use than those who do not.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has a Drug User Health Resource Guide that contains vital information for harm reduction, health services, food and housing resources and more.
For more local information on harm reduction, please contact:
Twin City Harm Reuction Collective
639 South Green Street, Winston Salem
Twincityhrc@gmail.com
336-529-4492
https://www.tchrc.org/
The overdose reversal drug. Narcan is a brand-name of Naloxone. Comes in the form of a nasal spray or intramuscular injection. North Carolina has a Standing Order for Naloxone that makes it available without a prescription. For more information, visit https://naloxonesaves.org/
725 N. Highland Avenue, Winston Salem
336-703-3250
Cost: free
Forsyth County Detention Center
201 N. Church Street, Winston Salem, NC 27101
(during operational hours)
https://nextdistro.org/
https://www.naloxoneexchange.com/
Cost: varies by site and location.
336-703-2273
Open 24/7, walk-ins accepted
650 N. Highland Avenue, Winston Salem, NC 27101
1-866-275-9552
Where a person can go to be monitored and safe while they go through the period of withdrawals, pain and adjustments that happen when a person stops using drugs and those drugs are leaving their body. The detox process can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks to complete depending on which substances a person using, their level of tolerance, and individual health conditions/bodily function.
1931 Union Cross Road, Winston Salem
336-784-9470 (call before going to their location)
601 N. Elm Street, High Point
336-878-6000
1104 S. Main Street, Suite A, Lexington
336-242-2450
Note: Only accepts patients with dual diagnosis of mental health and Substance Use Disorder.
3637 Old Vineyard Road, Winston Salem
336-794-3550
There are multiple methods and options for people seeking treatment for their Substance Use Disorder. The most effective methods involve treatment of the whole person including physical, mental and emotional health as well as addressing needs such as housing, food insecrurity, employment, and social factors. Some treatment facilities are in-patient or residential, whereas others are outpatient. Some are abstinence based (not utilizing any type of medication) and other use various forms of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) to help keep a person stable and prevent/limit cravings to use drugs. There is no "one-sie-fits-all" approach to treating Substance Use Disorder. Determining Factors include financieal rsources and health insurance status as well as the individual's personal needs and preferences.
Please use this helpful guide from More Powerful NC to help choose between treatment options.
Support groups exist for individuals recovering from Substance Use Disorder as well as their families. Please explore the following options to find something that might be a good fit for you and a loved one.
In addition to substance use resources, please check out our Community Resources Map to find things like housing, financiel, childcare, clothing and other resources you may need.