Student Health & Counseling

Harm Reduction

harm reduction peer support

What is Harm Reduction

Harm reduction is an inclusive, evidence-based, and non-judgmental approach to substance use. Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with alcohol and other drug use.

People use drugs. The Peer Harm Reduction Advocate, is here to break the stigma of alcohol and drug use. They provide resources, tools, and services to help reduce risk and promote safer use.

The Peer Harm Reduction Advocate is available to meet with students who are interested in discussing safer ways to use alcohol and other drugs and/or in being connected with off-campus resources for accessing harm reduction supplies such as Naloxone (Narcan). The Peer Harm Reduction Advocate facilitates workshops around harm reduction, overdose prevention, and safe substance use. Whether you are looking for information on safer drug combinations, safer drinking, shooting, snorting, or helping your life balance when it comes to alcohol and substance use, we are here to help. Connect with the Peer Harm Reduction Advocate at harmreduction@pdx.edu to learn more about current offerings.

Naloxone (Narcan) Training drop-in hours for Fall Term:

  • Mondays from 11-1 PM in the Peer Recovery Center (University Center Building - UCB 340 E)
  • If these dates/times don't work for you, please email harmreduction@pdx.edu to schedule a different pick-up time

Legal Resources

PSU Drug and Alcohol Policies

Rules around alcohol and substance use on-campus differ from local and state legislation.

Oregon Drug Laws

Student Legal Support

Off-Campus Resources

Portland People’s Outreach Project (PPOP) is an all-volunteer peer-run harm reduction organization dedicated to providing individuals who use drugs with the tools to live happier, healthier lives. PPOP distributes new syringes and other supplies for safer drug use, overdose-reversing Naloxone (Narcan), and a variety of other harm reduction, wound care, and safer sex supplies. Visit their website for hours and outreach locations. 

Cost: Free | Confidentiality: Confidential | Eligibility: People 18+ years of age

Outside In’s Injection Drug Users Health Services (IDUHS) promotes health and healing for people who are using injection drugs. Visit their website for hours and locations. Services provided include: Syringe exchange, HIV and Hepatitis C testing, Safer sex supplies, Overdose prevention & naloxone training, Fentanyl testing, Referrals to health care & drug treatment, Motivational interviewing, Safe needle disposal, Vein care education, & OHP enrollment. 

Cost: Free | Confidentiality: Confidential | Eligibility: People 18+ years of age

Multnomah County Health Department’s Harm Reduction Clinic and Syringe Exchange Program provide: syringe exchange, wound and abscess care, sexual health services, urgent care, Oregon Health Plan enrollment, referrals to medical and mental health care, shelter services, and alcohol and drug treatment. Visit their website for hours and locations.

Educational Resources
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