Get involved | Stop Overdose

Get involved.

Find ways to support your loved ones.

‘‘

I’m not a bad mom because my son is going through substance use disorder. I am trying my best to stay connected to him and help in any way I can. But sometimes I feel judged or alone - people don’t know what to do or say about his addiction. I wish the people in my life knew the whole story.

‘‘

My parents continuing to show me love and support made the biggest difference. They let me know they’re there. I’m grateful that my family knows that ‘tough love’ would actually push us apart. Connecting with my family and friends has helped me feel worthy of getting help.

‘‘

I felt frustrated because I didn’t know how to help my son with his addiction. Things were hard between us until I remembered he is more than his condition. He’s my son. He deserves love and support while we figure this out together.

‘‘

I was nervous to reach out to my friend because I didn’t know how to help or what to say. I began to ask what he needed. It was about listening and not judging. We’ve been figuring out how to get through it together.

Start the

conversation.

It can be hard to know how to support someone experiencing addiction. Compassionate connection can make a difference.

There are ways to be there for your loved ones.

Make

the

connection.

This can look different for every person or family. This might be telling someone you care about them. Or letting them know you’re there if they want to talk.

You could try: “Hi, it’s been a while – I just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. I’d love to catch up. Any chance you’re free this weekend?”

Come from a place

of compassion.

The ‘tough love’ approach can make people feel shame or blamed. Kindness and compassion go a long way.

You could try: “I’m sorry you’re having such a hard time. I wish I could make this better for you. I’m here for you, and I’ll do what I can. What’s the best way I can support you right now?”

Understand

their story.

Taking time to learn about someone’s experience and how they’re feeling can make your connection stronger. It can help them feel seen and respected.

You could try: “It sounds like things are tough for you right now. If you’re okay with it, I’d like to learn from you. Can we chat?”

Be kind

yourself.

Supporting someone is not always easy. Creating healthy boundaries can help.

You could try: “Thank you so much for trusting me with that. I really care about you and I want to talk more about this. I might just need a few days so I can support you the way you deserve.”

Language matters.

Words can hurt, even when they’re not meant to. Everyone can find ways to be mindful and communicate in a supportive way.

You could try: “When I told you that we needed to ‘fix you,’ I was coming from a place of wanting things to get better. I realize now that my words hurt you – I’m sorry."

Have the

conversation.

Conversations that are free of blame or judgement let others know you care. Reaching out to check in and talk helps them to know they’re not alone.

You could try: “Hey, I hope I’m not overstepping here, but it seems like you’re not yourself lately. Would you like to meet up? I’m here for you.”

Learn about

substance use

and addiction.

Educating yourself about addiction helps you and the person you’re supporting. It can help you understand their journey.

You could try: “To be honest, I want to be there for you, but I don’t know that much about what you’re going through. Is it okay to ask some questions? Let me know if there’s anything you’re not comfortable answering.”

Empathy and compassion can make a big difference.

BC Lions head coach Rick Campbell talks about empathy and supporting one another.

HAVE THE CONVERSATION

Get help.

For yourself, a loved one, or a friend who may need help.