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De-Escalation Resources

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De-escalation is more than a set of techniques—it’s a practice grounded in care, communication, and situational awareness. These tools, guides, and trainings support the development of calmer, safer environments for staff and participants alike.

Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) and the COE-NF Toolkit a project of SAMHSA

Crisis Prevention Institute and their Resource Library

Right Response and their free e-book De-escalate Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime:

Unplug the Power Struggle with Principle-Based De-escalation

Powershift De-Escalation Guide

The American Organization for Nursing leadership, AONL has a Guide to Mitigating Workplace Violence

Joint Commission has a Guide to De-Escalation in Healthcare

Books

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, Marshall B. Rosenberg

Other sets of external resources including toolkits, practical guides, and deep-dive materials on topics like de-escalation, mental health support, participant accountability, overdose response, and more:

Featured Hacks

These featured hacks highlight creative, practical solutions from harm reduction leaders on the ground. From DIY tools to clever workarounds, each one reflects the ingenuity, care, and real-world experience that keeps this movement alive. 

Hacks for Non-Verbal Active Listening

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When someone is agitated or in distress, how we carry ourselves can make a huge difference. Non-verbal cues—like posture, breathing, and personal space—can either calm a situation or escalate it further. The following tips offer guidance on using body language to reduce tension, show respect, and create a safer, more grounded interaction.
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Resilience Building

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Because so many of us are so similar to the folks we serve, including the trauma we carry with us, and because it is now recognized that extreme stress impacts people who care for people experiencing that trauma nearly as much as the people directly impacted by that trauma, it is essential that people in […]
Read this Hack