In response to the toxic drug crisis, the Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) launched Parents Like Us: An Unofficial Guide to Caring for a Young Person Who Uses Substances, a resource designed to offer hope and practical advice for caregivers. Unveiled in June, this free handbook combines evidence-based information with personal stories, artwork, and insights from families who have experienced substance use firsthand. It was co-created with input from local caregivers, youth, and community partners over a year of focus groups and consultations.
The guide covers nine chapters on topics such as harm reduction, overdose response, communication strategies, and navigating complex systems. Its real strength lies in its tone, providing not just advice, but a “map” to help caregivers understand and manage their journey. It emphasizes the importance of caregiver boundaries and self-care, highlighting that caregivers must “set boundaries” to avoid “robbing” individuals of valuable life lessons.
Indigenous perspectives are woven throughout, and TBDHU is exploring Ojibwe and French translations to increase accessibility. Available in print and online, Parents Like Us is designed to open up conversations about substance use, reduce isolation, and support caregivers in navigating the complexities of addiction in their families.
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