But also, as many people who write about Harm Reduction have said, drugs and alcohol are not all bad, which is why the abstinence-based programs often do not work for them.
Karen spoke about how each one of us chooses our own paths in life and that she would have jumped off a bridge long ago if she had not had alcohol or drugs to help her cope. It’s a coping mechanism. We came to the conclusion that harm reduction means that it is recognized that people do need drugs to cope at times and it is a reality of life. (Focus Group #1)
This is the stage where users begin to build assets, improve their quality of life, become more self-directed, and connect to the community and economy — perhaps by attending community programs and volunteering.
The research participants who came to Focus Groups at the WISH learning centre were not all active members or learners there. In other words, they did not necessarily“engage” in community groups or volunteer work. But almost everyone mentioned the need to cooperate, and how they did their part in large and small ways. They mentioned strategies such as joining a program, volunteering, and “having a positive interaction in the community” (Focus Group # 1 & 2).
Many research participants have told me, in words and actions, that harm reduction is not only about keeping yourself safe, but also about helping others in the community to stay safe, bringing joy to their lives, and getting involved in Harm Reduction groups.
“Sometimes other women do not have any condoms and ask for them. I try to help those who ask.” (Focus Group written responses)
“I like being part of WISH” (Focus Group #1)
“We want to contribute to the community” (UpWords focus group)
Some women at WISH talked about volunteering on community boards. Since our focus group, at least two women from WISH have joined boards in the community and three are on the WISH board.