Guidance on Communicating with the Public to Increase Knowledge of and Support for Harm Reduction and Treatment Policies and Programs for People Who Use Drugs

Effective communication strategies regarding harm reduction and treatment initiatives for people who use drugs (substances) are key to gaining public support for these life-saving services. Throughout this guidance, the authors summarize and link to available evidence on effective communication strategies, issues to be aware of, and evidence supported facts about harm reduction that can be used when crafting public communications. They encourage thoughtful and critical use of the guideline presented below as the evidence is limited, emerging and evolving. The guidance is intended to be evergreen and updated periodically to reflect changes in best practice and emerging evidence. Effective communication strategies critically examine the intended goal and target audience and tailor the message to meet those objectives. No message or story will resonate with everyone or work across all contexts.