In this issue
Welcome to HeretoHelp Within Reach! HeretoHelp Within Reach is a quarterly resource that highlights resources from HeretoHelp and the BC Partners for Mental Health and Substance Use Information. Discover new publications, hidden gems, and upcoming events, news, and updates. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @HeretoHelpBC.
This issue of Within Reach shares resources for families supporting a young person with a mental illness.
Substance Use and Young People: A Guide for Families and Their Caring Communities
www.heretohelp.bc.ca/workbook/substance-use-and-young-people
The workbook from the Canadian Institute of Substance Use Research helps parents or caregivers talk with a young person about substance use. Learn more about substance use, reflect on your own experiences of substance use, and find strategies and skills to help you talk respectfully (even when the topic is tricky or feels uncomfortable) and build a strong, caring relationship.
Family Toolkit
www.heretohelp.bc.ca/workbook/family-toolkit
The Family Toolkit from the BC Schizophrenia Society is for anyone who supports a family member that experiences a mental illness. Learn more about different mental illnesses and substance use problems, different treatment options, healthy communication skills and boundaries, how to work with the school system, and how to take care of yourself.
Family Self-Care and Recovery from Mental Illness
www.heretohelp.bc.ca/workbook/family-self-care-and-recovery-from-mental-illness
This workbook from the Mood Disorders Association of BC is especially helpful when a family member spends time in hospital or experiences a serious mental illness. It discusses recovery and realistic expectations of the recovery process, caregiving planning (like planning care after discharge from hospital and legal tools to ensure a loved one's care needs are met), managing difficult feelings like loss, and strategies to help the entire family work together.
In the Know education and networking for parents and caregivers
In The Know is a monthly education and networking event for parents and caregivers across the province. Watch a video presentation from an expert and participate in an online discussion with other families and Parents in Residence. Visit familysmart.ca/program/itk/ to sign up! You can also watch past In the Know presentations in the ItK Library.
COVID-19 issue of Visions Journal
www.heretohelp.bc.ca/visions/covid-19-vol16
The COVID-19 issue of Visions Journal discusses mental health and substance use in a pandemic. British Columbians share their experiences: providing essential services, parenting, caring for a parent in long-term care, navigating homelessness. They also share the strategies and perspectives that help them live well and find balance.
