Looking after yourself is paramount to both your own wellbeing and your ability to maintain your role as a carer. Taking care of all aspects of your life, including your mental and physical health, will increase the likelihood that you stay well, so that you can continue to support the person you are caring for.
Carers Tasmania can put you in touch with a range of services and information to help you with some of your own needs.
Get in touch with our friendly team for advice.
The stress of caring
It is normal to experience a bit of stress; everyone feels it in their day-to-day lives. But when stress becomes more consistent it can begin to affect your health and wellbeing. You may not be able to significantly change the demands of your caring role, but you can look creatively at small changes which might help.
Seek support from family and friends. Slow down. Look after yourself.
There are services which can help ease stress. Carers Tasmania offers education workshops with coping strategies for carers, as well as information, emotional support, counselling all designed to give you a break.
Getting together with other carers through our Carer Support Programs can also help to ease stress as you know you aren’t alone.
Need a break?
It’s okay to take a break from the demanding role of a carer. We can help you to explore options and plan flexible respite that best meets both your needs and the needs of the person you care for.
If you are organising respite privately, remember to communicate your requirements and expectations clearly and openly, but also be prepared to listen to and accept what the provider can or can’t offer. We can give you information on how to best plan for any situation.
Good planning can also help you to balance you caring responsibilities better with the rest of your life. Our planning ahead page provides you with useful information and things to consider for the future and if you are not available to fulfill your caring role.
Simple Tips
Eat well and exercise regularly. Diet and exercise are crucial to staying healthy, in body and mind.
Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Meditation, listening to music or reading can help if you have difficulty falling asleep.
Find out what relaxes you and take regular time out to recharge. Try to do something that you enjoy every day and spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself.
Talk with family and friends about how you feel. Let off steam and encourage them to do the same. Talk to your doctor if you feel that stress is affecting your health. It may also help to talk with a professional counsellor.