Defining Relapse from a Harm Reduction Perspective

Abstract

In the treatment of addictions, engaging in any substance use following treatment is often viewed as a treatment failure. This paper provides theoretical and empirical support for a harm reduction approach to the evaluation of treatment outcomes. Such an approach focuses on consequences associated with the post-treatment drinking, without using rigid definitions of “success”; or “failure.”; Harm reduction approaches to alcohol treatment are introduced and recommendations for future research and social work practice are provided.

Key Words:

• Relapse
• alcohol treatment
• harm reduction
• relapse prevention
• treatment outcomes