Episode 114: Filling the Harm Reduction Gap (featuring Sheila P. Vakharia)Episode 114: Filling the Harm Reduction Gap (featuring Sheila P. Vakharia)
Talking Addiction & Recovery
What happens when there is a substantial gap in how we currently approach substance use?  Sheila P. Vakharia is an author, sought-after speaker, and national expert on harm reduction and drug policy.  Her recent book, “The Harm Reduction Gap” p
1:13:47•1 Apr 2024
Bridging the Gap: Sheila Vakharia on Harm Reduction Strategies
Episode Overview
- Sheila Vicario discusses the multifaceted aspects of harm reduction and its philosophical underpinnings.
- The episode highlights the significance of understanding the roots of harm reduction and its role in drug policy.
- Sheila emphasises the need to go beyond interventions and consider the broader values of harm reduction.
- The conversation touches on treatment trauma, community support, and navigating language sensitivity in substance use discussions.
- Listeners gain insights into the complexities of harm reduction and the importance of holistic community involvement.
“Harm reduction is more than its tools. It's more than simply tolerating or accepting non-abstinence. It's more than just saying if this is where you're at I'm okay but I ultimately want you to stop one day. That's not harm reduction.”
Ever felt like the conversation around substance use is missing something crucial? Sheila Vakharia, a renowned expert in harm reduction and drug policy, steps in to fill that void. In this episode of 'Talking Addiction & Recovery', Sheila dives into the nuances of harm reduction, a topic that's often misunderstood but vital for those dealing with addiction.
She brings her extensive knowledge to the table, discussing everything from the significance of language to the roots and evolution of harm reduction practices. Her recent book, 'The Harm Reduction Gap', serves as a backdrop for this enlightening conversation. Sheila's insights challenge the traditional approaches and push for a more compassionate, informed perspective on substance use. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the broader picture of addiction and recovery, beyond just the surface-level interventions.
Whether you're a mental health professional, someone in recovery, or a loved one seeking to support, Sheila's wisdom offers a fresh, humanizing look at harm reduction.

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