Mental Health & Wellness Supports

Experimentation with drugs and alcohol can occur during adolescence, a time when curiosity, risk-taking, and the desire for social acceptance may influence decision-making. Family and home environments can also shape young people’s attitudes toward substance use, including the behaviours they observe, and the frequency and amount of substance use they see modelled by adults in the home.

How can I recognize when substance use may be becoming a concern for me or my child?

Substance use may be becoming a concern when it begins to interfere with everyday responsibilities and activities, such as school, work, family relationships, or hobbies.

Relying on a substance to manage emotions, cope with stress, sleep, or to feel happy may also increase the risk of developing dependence or addiction. Warning signs can include difficulty cutting back or stopping, continuing to use despite negative consequences, experiencing physical or emotional discomfort when reducing or stopping use, and needing increasing amounts of a substance to achieve the same effect.

What can I do if I suspect my child is getting into trouble with substance use?

Express your concerns openly and honestly. Offer repeated opportunities to connect with outside supports, while also making space for them to talk and feel heard. Spend more time listening than speaking; no one likes to be lectured. Be open about your own choices, mistakes, experiences growing up. Make space for open discussion (driving together, walking the dog, family meals). Set firm and fair rules and boundaries. Ask for help from helping professionals who work with children/teens. Remember that actions speak louder than words.

General Information on Substance Use and Addictions

https://foundrybc.ca/info-tools/substance-use

What is addiction? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVLpnMHHEPU&t=3s

Community Resources

Prince George

Foundry Prince George
https://foundrybc.ca/princegeorge

School District 57 Substance Use Counsellors
Duchess Park/CLA/DP Todd: Miranda Grattan 778-764-1772
CHSS/Shas Ti Kelly Road/PGSS: Josh Van der Meer 778-764-1772

Northern Health Services
https://www.northernhealth.ca/services/mental-health-substance-use/programs-and-services#youth-community-outpatient-service-ycos-prince-george

http://www.pgnfc.com/programs_services.html

Valemount & McBride

Robson Valley Community Services
https://robsonvalleycommunityservices.org/

Northern Health
https://www.northernhealth.ca/services/mental-health-substance-use/services-by-community#valemount

https://www.northernhealth.ca/services/mental-health-substance-use/services-by-community#valemount#mcbride

Mackenzie

Mackenzie Counselling
https://www.mackenziecounselling.ca/