Caring for Carers

Dealing with mental health challenges, illness, ageing, or disability is tough, especially when it involves caring for someone you love.

You aren't alone. There are more than 3 million carers in Australia. Here are some tips to keep in mind if someone you care for needs caring for.

• Chat with your person and skip the assumptions! Ask your loved one what kind of support they need. You’ll hear this piece of advice a lot from us - communication is key! 

• Feel the Feels: Whether it's fear, anger, or the deep-down blues, embrace those emotions. No need to try to fix everything or try to cheer them up - just being there matters. Share your own feelings too; it's okay to open up.

• Self-Care Alert: Caring is exhausting so don't forget about yourself! Take breaks, find your own support people, and recharge those batteries. Remember that the carer needs caring for too!

• Take any opportunity to laugh. When the going gets tough, find a moment to share a laugh. Even in the midst of challenges, a good laugh together can brighten the darkest days.

Carers Journal

On the inside cover of the Carers Journal there is a quote.

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." Bernard Baruch

Bernard was a statesman in America, born in the late 1800's and active during the first World War. His words still resonate today.