Guidelines to destigmatize harm reduction: How stigma and misperceptions impede benefits of evidence-based drug policy

Despite the wealth of literature supporting a harm reduction approach to substance use, it remains challenging to implement evidence into policy. As Canada expands its harm reduction services, it is important to address that controversial community perceptions of harm reduction and substance use negatively impact the goals of this work. This project is based on a literature review on community perceptions of harm reduction and people who use drugs. Health professionals and clients have identified stigma in health care, and in broader society, as a barrier to optimal service provision. The project addresses this problem with a set of guidelines for health professionals on destigmatizing harm reduction work. The guidelines clarify misperceptions about harm reduction, outline the harmful impact of stigma on health outcomes, and promote actions associated with reduced stigma and enhanced health outcomes. Such actions include self-care, reflection on ethics, and supporting the dignity and autonomy of clients.