Current location
You are here: for carers and family > looking after yourselfFor carers and family
Looking after yourself
Being a carer can be one of the most demanding things you’ve ever done, and it’s all too easy to suffer from burnout with the extra load of physical and emotional stress. That’s why you cannot afford to neglect your own health and needs, no matter how much you love the person you care for and no matter how dedicated you are to caring for that person.
This part of our website is all about your needs, and it includes the following sections.
Young carers
There are a surprisingly large number of carers under 18 in Australia – more than 180 000. If you’re a young carer it’s essential that you balance your own needs with those of the person you’re looking after. This page offers tips on how to look after yourself and your rights.Read more: About young carers
Your health and well-being
Go to this section of our website for tips on how to look after your health and well-being. We include information on relaxation, sharing the load and what to do if you’re not coping.Read more: About your health and well-being
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres
These centres are an excellent resource for support services/groups and service providers. You can also find out about the specialist counselling offered through the National Carer Counselling Program.Read more: About Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres
Associations and support groups
This part of the website lets you know about all the support groups and programs that give carers time off, for a few hours or even a few days, to look after their own needs.Read more: About associations and support groups
Counselling for the carer
There may be times that you need counselling to help you cope with your caring role. If so, don’t be afraid to ask for it, because lots of help is available.Read more: About counselling for the carer
Taking a break from caring
It’s not uncommon for carers to become exhausted and overwhelmed. That’s why it’s so important to take a break – sometimes called ‘respite’. By taking time off you get a chance to look after your own physical and emotional needs, making you a better carer in the long run.Read more: About taking a break from caring
Common questions on this topic:
- I want to join a group that meets once a week and have arranged alternative care for Mum, but she says I am being selfish. Should I continue?
- If I am concerned about the effect medication is having on the person I care for, who can I talk to for advice?
- The rest of the family don't seem understand the problems I have looking after Dad. Is there anyone I can talk to?
See all common questions
