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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

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. 

Mobile harm reduction services come in many forms—each shaped by local needs, available resources, and the creativity of the people providing care. From backpack outreach to vans, bikes, and home delivery, these models offer flexibility, build trust, and reach people who may never visit a fixed site. This section explores the unique strengths and limitations of different mobile approaches
Medical gloves should be worn whenever handling exposed or used supplies, especially those that might be used to prepare or use injection drugs such as syringes, cottons, cookers, tourniquets, and ascorbic acid. Gloves should be changed often, especially between activities or participants.