What does 'harm minimisation' mean in the context of AOD use?

• A. Encouraging heavy drinking to build tolerance.
• B. Ignoring risks.
• C. Eliminating all use immediately.
• D. Strategies to reduce harm even if drinking continues, such as pacing, hydration, not mixing, and planning safe transport.

Answer: (D)

Harm minimisation means reducing the possible harm from alcohol and other drugs, even if use continues. It recognises that not everyone can stop right away, so the focus is on practical steps that lower risk and protect health. The described actions—pacing drinks, staying hydrated, not mixing substances, and planning safe transport—fit this idea because they reduce the chances of harm while use happens. This differs from approaches that encourage heavier drinking to build tolerance (which increases risk), ignore risks, or push for immediate abstinence (which is a different approach altogether). In real life, harm minimisation also includes safer patterns, not driving after drinking, and knowing when to seek help.