Skip to main content

Hacks for Recognizing Behavioral Signs of Escalation

Posted in .

Recognising early signs of agitation or distress can help prevent conflict and keep harm reduction spaces safer for everyone. While every situation is different, there are some common behavioural cues that may signal someone is beginning to escalate.

Behavioral signs of escalation include:

  • Heightened irritability.
  • Raised voice.
  • Increase in speech or rapid speech.
  • Sudden silence or social withdrawal.
  • Mood swings.
  • Difficulty concentrating or impaired memory.

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. 

Consent Culture

Featured in: ,
The concept of “consent culture” emerged from the sex positive movement of the 1980s and 90s. It was a response to the concept of “rape culture”, a term that had been coined to describe the experience that many people—especially women, queer and trans people—have of sexual violence and harassment.
Read this Hack

Types of Mobile Service Harm Reduction Provision

Featured in: ,
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
Read this Hack