Harm Reduction's Journey: A Chat with Maia Szalavitz
Let's stop harm. So it was really the same moment that I learned both of those things, and it just outraged me, because there were literally people going around saying: don't teach them to use bleach to clean their needles, let alone give them needles, because that will encourage them.
Imagine a world where addiction treatment isn't just about abstinence but also about reducing harm and showing compassion. That's exactly what Maia Szalavitz discusses with Zach Rhoads in this episode of the LPP Podcast. Maia dives into her book, 'Undoing Drugs', offering a deep dive into the history of harm reduction. She traces its roots from the early days to its significant impact on today's policies, beliefs, and behaviors.
The conversation is rich with topics like the evolution of harm reduction strategies, the role of government, and the critical need for empathy and activism in addiction treatment. Maia's passion for the subject shines through, making this episode both enlightening and engaging. Whether you're new to the concept of harm reduction or looking to expand your understanding, this episode provides a fresh perspective that challenges traditional views on addiction recovery.