Many people who care for others put themselves at the bottom of the list when it comes to getting support, but if the carer isn't fit and well, who will look after the patient? The aeroplane safety message is put your own mask on before helping others and this is what we want you to do.
Caring for someone at home is hard work and in the current situation, with all the added anxieties, this work can feel exhausting. Emotional distress and anxiety makes us physically tired so don’t be surprised if you feel exhausted all the time and less able than you would expect to be or want to be.
What can you do to make things more manageable for yourself?
- Don’t expect too much of yourself. Out of all the things you could do, decide what are the most important and focus on them
- Notice what you have achieved and not what you haven’t
- Sitting being with someone is time well spent
- Identify friends and family who can support you, and find people who will help you to feel better, not those who you would normally be supporting
- Find friends and family who can communicate with the person you are looking after if possible, for example via phone or video call, e.g. Skype
- Use the support of organisations:
- Bristol Carers Support Centre for those living in the Bristol and South Gloucestershire area which continues to be available or use the Carers Line 0117 965 2200
- BANES Carers Centre for those living in BANES, will continue to provide telephone support to carers on 0800 0388 885 alongside a lot of information online about looking after yourself, benefits and advice,
- Mind has access to support for those going through emotional distress. You can also contact them on 0300 123 3393
- Living with Worry and Anxiety amidst Global Uncertainty Different techniques to support your wellbeing
- And use practical support offered by Royal Voluntary Service at or call them on 0808 196 3646 and from Age UK or call them on 0117 929 7537 - Don’t be surprised if how you feel is unfamiliar to you. These feelings are not unique to you. Some people feel frightened, angry, upset or abandoned. If we can help support you please use our Hospice advice line on 0117 915 9430.
