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From Punishment to Healing: Why Families Are Rallying Behind Harm Reduction
How are science-backed approaches saving Lives — and families?
In recent years, we’ve witnessed an unprecedented transformation in how we address substance use — from outdated punishment models toward science-backed, harm-reduction strategies. Landmark legislation, including Minnesota’s recent law decriminalizing all forms of drug paraphernalia and contained drug residues, has set a new national precedent. These changes, championed by leaders in the field and community voices, speak to the urgent need for public health interventions that truly serve individuals and families.
As the Founder of Family WELLTh Management, I see firsthand how stigmatizing views about substance use can undermine family stability, perpetuate trauma, and hinder effective treatment. Traditional abstinence-only and purely spiritual perspectives — while potentially helpful for some — simply fail to address the complexity of addiction. Instead, science and compassionate practices like Medication-Assisted Treatment, harm reduction, and robust peer support can disrupt cycles of suffering and rebuild trust within families and communities.
Why does this matter for your family or loved ones? When we dismiss the evidence and cling to shame-based strategies, we…
