Harm reduction avoids judging a person for using drugs. It provides practical information and strategies to help individuals and communities reduce health and social problems related to drug use. There are three levels of prevention which include a broad range of intervention options. Intervention can include simply giving information, or it can involve supporting someone who is withdrawing. The type of prevention strategy used for an individual depends on the type of drug use and the problems experienced.
Primary prevention aims to prevent drug use from occurring at all or to delay the onset of use.
Strategies include education, information, community education through media campaigns and sponsorships, community development initiatives, and legislation. Secondary prevention aims to prevent drug problems by identifying and modifying potentially harmful drug use. Information and campaigns promoting safer levels of alcohol consumption are examples of secondary prevention strategies. Intervention may involve working with individuals, families, schools, youth groups, or peer networks. Brief intervention is a secondary prevention strategy.