Harm reduction has a variety of definitions. To define it, we at A Betor Way have implemented policies, practices, and procedures to reduce the risk of negative consequences of a behavior and crush the negative stigma associated with drug use. We respect and have zero judgement on people who use drugs.

We have a network of treatment option referrals and programs for individuals who are interested in treatment and recovery. We also provide free harm reduction supplies to keep people who use drugs safe. We believe with harm reduction, we can utilize our resources to stop the spread of HIV and Hepatitis-C, as well as aid in the prevention of overdose, and death.

Naloxone is a life saving medication that can be given to a person during an opiate overdose. Its very important to have naloxone on hand if you or someone you know is at risk of an opiate overdose. Opiates include heroin and derivatives of it.

• Always try to use around other people you trust. They can give you rescue breathing or naloxone if you need it. http://stopoverdose.org/section/learn-about-overdose/#whattodo
• Carry and be sure your friends carry the rescue drug, naloxone (Narcan). You can get it from many pharmacies here in WA State as well as from scripts from your doctor or from needle and syringe exchanges. Here’s a list of ways to get it: http://stopoverdose.org/section/find-naloxone-near-you/
• Test your dose before you use it by getting urine testing strips for fentanyl or other substances and dipping the strip into the cooked dose. Ask about drug testing strips here: http://www.peoplesharmreductionalliance.org/, and buy them in bulk here: https://dancesafe.org/shop/
• Test your dose by shooting just a little tester first until you know if it’s your usual. You can snort a tiny bit instead, but please be aware that snorting can also lead to overdose, so be sure it’s a small amount.

• Distribute opioid overdose reversal medications (e.g., naloxone) to individuals at risk of overdose, or to those who are likely to respond to an overdose.
• Lessen harms associated with drug use and related behaviors that increase the risk of infectious diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, and bacterial and fungal infections.
• Reduce infectious disease transmission among people who use drugs (including those who inject drugs) by equipping them with sterile supplies, accurate information and facilitating referrals to resources.
• Reduce overdose deaths, promote linkages to care, facilitate co-location of services as part of a comprehensive, integrated approach.
• Reduce stigma associated with substance use and co-occurring disorders.
• Promote a philosophy of hope and healing ― by employing people with living and lived experience in leadership and in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of services. People with lived experience can also model for their peers what meaningful change can look like in their lives.