Is harm reduction “enabling” addiction? Myths vs reality (with Sarah Laurel)

You've probably heard the myths: that offering housing, food, or money to someone struggling with addiction just “enables” them. That people using suboxone or methadone aren’t ready to make a “real change.” But what if those ideas are not only wrong—but harmful?

In this episode, harm reduction advocate and person in recovery Sarah Laurel dismantles the most persistent misconceptions about harm reduction and addiction, and what it means to truly show up for someone you love. She helps us rethink how harm reduction can not only save lives—but relationships too.

Sarah shares her journey through substance use and recovery, the unwavering support of her mother, and the complicated but evolving bond she shares with her siblings. She speaks candidly about choosing abstinence (recognizing it's not for everyone), why practicing harm reduction still requires boundaries, and how the most compassionate path forward often begins with meeting people exactly where they are.

Sarah also shares how she and the Savage Sisters are saving lives every day in Philadelphia—supporting people who’ve survived overdose and helping families take meaningful action, whether or not their loved ones live with them.

If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “Am I enabling?”, wondered what harm reduction really looks like in practice, or struggled to balance love with boundaries—this episode is for you. Sarah’s story will help you unpack the nuance, explore the many forms harm reduction can take, and empower you to make choices rooted in compassion, clarity, and your own values.

This episode may help you:

• Understand how providing housing, MAT, food and compassion helps save lives

• Discover the spectrum of harm reduction practices families can practice

• Balance love and boundaries while staying true to your values

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Episode resources:

• Savage Sisters

• What is Harm Reduction?

• Safe Use Hotlines: Safe Spot and Never Use Alone