Undoing Drugs: The Untold Story of Harm Reduction and the Future of Addiction

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From "one of the bravest, smartest writers about addiction anywhere" (Johann Hari, New York Times bestselling author), this work reveals the untold story of harm reduction, a powerful yet simple concept. Drug overdoses now claim more American lives annually than guns, cars, or breast cancer. Current policies aimed at addressing this crisis have often exacerbated the problem, leading to increased disease spread, family separations, and mass incarceration, particularly affecting Black and Brown communities, while failing to prevent addiction or provide effective treatment. Harm reduction, a method developed by marginalized drug users, former users, and public health advocates, offers a proven alternative. It emphasizes saving lives and improving health, challenging the entrenched beliefs of our criminal and medical systems. Through a compelling narrative, the text recounts how a dedicated group of individuals transformed societal perceptions and practices surrounding addiction. It highlights the difficulty of challenging conventional wisdom and the importance of human connection and kindness in fostering change. Ultimately, it presents a revolutionary approach to addiction treatment and broader societal issues, advocating for a more compassionate and effective response to these challenges.