THE FACTS ABOUT ABSTINENCE

Re: Stunned by AFM statement (Barb Potkonjak letter, Dec. 2)

Given the number of thoughtful responses to my statements about harm
reduction in the Nov. 29 edition of The Winnipeg Sun (Treatment aims at
'harm reduction) by Dean Pritchard), clarification regarding the Addictions
Foundation of Manitoba's harm reduction approach is required.

It is true that abstinence is not always a realistic or necessary goal for
clients seeking rehabilitation at the AFM. Not all Manitobans seeking
service at our agency are dependent on alcohol, other drugs or gambling;
some clients come for information, and, given this, are able to make the
changes they need in order to live a healthy lifestyle.

It is also true that for some Manitobans, abstinence may be a desirable but
unrealistic goal, at least at a certain point in their life. For this
reason, AFM supports a harm reduction approach in some of our programs such
as the Methadone Intervention and Needle Exchange program, as well as some
of our community-based programs. Although abstinence may be the preferred
and ultimate goal, our staff recognize the reality that if our clients are
not able to maintain abstinence, we will use harm reduction strategies in
an effort to keep them connected to us, supporting the philosophy of "as
little harm as possible" to the individual, their family, and the community
at large.

For many of our clients, abstinence is both a realistic and a viable goal.
Those entering our residential rehab programs, for instance, are required
to maintain abstinence as a condition of being in program.

AFM will continue to strive to provide the most current information,
education and rehabilitation services to all Manitobans, including programs
that support the harm reduction approaches. In many cases, the best harm
reduction approach is abstinence.

John Borody, CEO

Addictions Foundation of Manitoba

(One approach doesn't fit all.)