Devon’s grandmother came to us at her wits’ end. She was frustrated, exhausted, and desperate for someone to fix Devon. But instead of focusing on changing her grandson, she found the support she needed for herself. Through therapy and support groups, Devon’s grandmother learned how to set healthy boundaries, make wise decisions, and care for her own well-being. Over time, these changes built a stronger relationship between her and Devon. While no one forced him to change, her approach encouraged Devon to become more open to seeking help in his own time. 

Caregiver Support: You Are Not Alone 

Caring for a young person navigating substance use or compulsive behaviours can feel deeply challenging, overwhelming, and isolating.  

How Caregiver Support Works

Our caregiver support services are designed to provide a safe space for anyone who is concerned about a young person in their life, whether they’re a parent, guardian, sibling, grandparent, or friend. Whether the concern is substance use, excessive screen time, or other compulsive behaviours, our services include:

• Support groups: Connect with others facing similar challenges. 

• Family and couples’ therapy: Work together to navigate difficulties and strengthen relationships. 

• Individual therapy: Focus on your personal journey and well-being as you learn to set boundaries, care for yourself and learn strategies to navigate your relationship with the person you care about  

Our flexible options allow you to choose what works best for you, whether it’s a one-time session, a short series, or ongoing appointments. 

Transformative Stories

Ashley’s dad, was terrified when his 14-year-old daughter began using drugs. He turned to us hoping we could talk Ashley out of using. Instead, he joined a caregiver support group and discovered he wasn’t alone. In that group, Ashley’s dad learned new strategies, found a community of understanding caregivers, and began his own healing journey. As he applied what he learned and approached Ashley differently, she started to open up. Eventually, Ashley decided to join our day treatment program. This transformation didn’t happen overnight, but it began with her dad finding the support he needed. 

Why Caregiver Support Matters

These stories highlight an essential truth: you can’t force a young person to change, but you can find strategies for your own caregiver journey. Through therapy and support groups, you can: 

• Gain practical tools to set healthy boundaries. 
• Learn self-care strategies to prevent burnout. 
• Find a community of others who understand your experience.
• Work with therapists who specialize in substance use and compulsive behaviours. 
• Build stronger relationships with the young people in your life. 

“In the past 15 years, we have interacted with a host of mental health practitioners; some were a ‘good’ fit, and others were a better fit. The staff at Ray of Hope stand out, they are experienced and offered us timely advice. They understood what we were going through”. (Mom of two young adults, who accessed Ray of Hope’s caregiver support) 

How Ray of Hope Can Help

If you’re worried about a young person in your life, consider reaching out. Whether you attend a support group, book a therapy session, or simply connect with our team to learn more, we’re here for you.  

We also offer speaking engagements for churches, schools, and community groups to raise awareness about caregiver support and available resources.

Supporting someone through challenging behaviours is hard work, but with the right tools and community, you can develop strategies that foster a more hopeful future.

Ready to take the first step? Call us at 519-743-2311 x510, visit rayofhope.net/yss, or email us at yss@rayofhope.net.  

*Names have been changed 

Calling all Walkers and Volunteers

The Coldest Night of the Year Kitchener is a winterrific family-friendly 2 km or 5 km fundraising walk for Ray of Hope on February 22, 2025.

Walkers and volunteers needed!

Register Here

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For more information, contact us at: donations@rayofhope.net. All donations are appreciated!

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