Looking After Yourself

Being a carer can be rewarding, but it can also be very hard work both physically and emotionally. Caring can often have a major impact on somebody's life, causing stress, worry and isolation.

To be able to fulfill your role as a carer you need to maintain your own health. To do this you need to ask for help and take time off when you can. Help may be available from friends, family, Social Services or voluntary organizations.

You may need the help of a sitter or specialist help, such as a community nurse.

If your health suffers you cannot help yourself or anyone else. It is important to watch your own diet, get regular exercise and get adequate rest.

Looking after someone is a full-time demanding job and sometimes you need a break. You may feel guilty about wanting a break, but time away can often put things in perspective.

It is easy to become isolated if you are a carer. You need to make time to keep up with friends and family and maintain your own social life and hobbies. It is helpful to join a support group to talk with other people in a similar situation to yourself and learn through their experiences.

Caring can be emotionally draining. It is difficult to avoid becoming angry or stressed, but the worst thing to do is bottle up your feelings. It is important to identify the signs of stress early on and find ways of working them out to minimize their destructive effects.

This may be by talking to someone about how you are feeling, having a relaxing bath or giving yourself a special treat and ensuring you get enough sleep. Do talk about your problems with your GP or health care worker or contact an organization that understand your situation and can offer specialist advice and support.