Peer groups offer support for families affected by substance use
For caregivers supporting loved ones affected by substance use, the journey can feel like a lonely one. Whether a mom, dad, grandparent, spouse, sibling or friend, caregivers shoulder worry, shame, guilt and despair.
Holding Hope Peer Support Groups were founded by Moms Stop the Harm (MSTH), a network of Canadian families affected by substance use-related harms and deaths. The support groups provide a safe space for caregivers to come together to share stories and resources without stigma, and to build strength and resilience.
“Holding Hope groups are about walking the same journey as other caregivers – without stigma, without judgement," says Jacquie Huser, project coordinator for Interior Parent Peer Support. "The groups offer an opportunity to feel less alone on a challenging, difficult journey.”
Holding Hope groups expand into new communities
Since early 2023, Holding Hope groups have expanded across B.C. and Canada. In the Interior Health region, there are now groups in Castlegar, Cranbrook, Grand Forks, Invermere/Fairmont, Kamloops, Kelowna, Nelson, Penticton, Vernon and Williams Lake. A Holding Hope group in Trail is starting this fall.
There are also three virtual options: BC Rural Virtual Group, Kelowna Virtual and Kootenay Boundary/East Kootenay Virtual.
From 2023 to 2024, there were 185 Holding Hope meetings held across our region.
Find a Holding Hope Support Group in B.C.
Stay informed about a new Holding Hope group in your community
A close partnership with Interior Health
Alison Kyte is manager, Substance Use Services for Interior Health’s Mental Health and Substance Use Transformation Team.
“Support groups like Holding Hope are an important part of Interior Health’s substance use services. We believe this kind of peer support is best delivered by an organization like Moms Stop the Harm,” says Alison, “Our partnership brings a focus to caregivers who are supporting youth 12–24 years old. Holding Hope groups have been evolving to meet the needs of those who are caring for children and young adults.”
I feel so safe being able to come here and be among people who truly understand what I am going through.
New facilitators are welcome
If you’re at a point in your journey where you feel you have capacity to give back, please contact Jacquie by email. Facilitators are needed to help establish new groups in Revelstoke, Merritt and Salmon Arm.
Becoming a facilitator and leading a new support group is a wonderful opportunity to bring together other caregivers in your community. As Jacquie explains, “Leading a peer-run group is both a supportive and rewarding experience. Our facilitators all have lived experiences and heal alongside group members.” She adds, “They often come to us when they’ve reached a point in their journey when they’re ready to give back.”
Interior Health and MSTH are also seeking organizations that can provide a space to host in-person support groups twice a month. Please contact Jacquie to learn more.
This is the first place I've been able to tell my full story and feel supported.
Bereavement support through Healing Hearts
Losing a loved one to substance use-related harms often brings with it complex layers of grief. Many individuals feel isolated in their grief journey due to the stigma associated with the nature of the passing.
Started in 2016 by a group of three moms who had lost their sons, Healing Hearts offers a safe, non-judgmental place for people to share their grief journey. There are 20 in-person and virtual Healing Hearts groups in B.C.
You have made me feel better about what's going on at home. I felt so alone before.
Get help today
Get help today
Call 310-MHSU (6478) to reach your local Mental Health and Substance Use Centre for support in your community. You can also explore these resources:
Adult substance use services and resources
Youth substance use services and resources
If you’re experiencing feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm, you can call one of these numbers. These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays:
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