REDUCTION OF DAMAGE AS A STRATEGY FOR THE USE AND ABUSE OF SUBSTANCES IN MEXICO: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

Harm reduction is suggested as a paradigm shift in addressing problematic drug use, the goal of the model is to lessen the consequences of dependence. The World Health Organization emphasizes harm reduction services such as syringe programs and opioid substitution therapy and human rights protection. Nurses, as they are frequently the first contact with the healthy and / or sick client, besides acting as an important axis in the multidisciplinary work, within the interventions it is possible to participate in strategies of communication between pairs, provision of services that improve consumer safety, support in substitution medical treatment for opiate dependency and support groups. In Mexico, there is a lack of training in human resources, a lack of economic resources for programs to prevent and treat addictions, the lack of development of government programs under the harm reduction model, the persistence of stigma and discrimination in the use and abuse of substances, the above, offers a field of training, updating and intervention for the profession developing activities of early detection, promotion and education for health.

Keywords

• Harm reduction
• substance use and abuse
• challenges
• opportunities