A carer is a person who offers invaluable physical and mental support to their clients on a regular basis, this could be because of an injury, or long term condition or disability. Carers make an incredible difference to the lives of their clients. They support them with daily tasks such as personal care, medication administration and household chores. Caring is an essential occupation which is undertaken by those with a passionate, caring nature and is an incredibly rewarding role but caring can also be physically and emotionally demanding for the individual. Whilst focusing on the well-being of others, carers sometimes forget to focus on their own mental wellbeing, so we’ll be discussing and highlighting care for Carers, it’s importance and exploring some useful resources to help our wonderful Carers.
Mental Health in Carers
Having so much responsibility can put a strain on a persons wellbeing, which can affect personal life including relationships. Carers are at risk of experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and depression. In a caring role, some individuals may feel unsure where to turn for help or suppress their feelings to continue supporting their client. This can be a dangerous cycle. This is why it is so crucial to raise awareness for this issue.
Where can carers get support?
Carer’s mental health is so vital, and fortunately, there are plenty of resources available. As well as professional support, we would urge carers to also reach out to friends and family members. Creating a strong support system of loved ones is vital, and even a phone call with someone you trust can make all the difference. There is absolutely no shame in asking for help, and as a carer, you are completing an essential, demanding job. Make sure you are getting the help you need.
Resources
- Mind is a mental health charity that completes vital work across the UK. ‘How to cope when supporting someone else‘ contains factual advice with useful links to resources for carers.
- Carers UK forum is an online community of people who are going through the same experiences and feelings as you. It can be incredibly relieving to know you are not alone. You can access this service from the comfort of your home. This is a support network that is invaluable to carers across the UK and is open to those over the age of 18. To post on the forum you need to join Carers UK as a member.
- The Samaritans have launched a confidential support line for health and social care workers and volunteers based in England and Wales. The line is run by trained volunteers who offer impartial, non-judgemental support. The line is open for those feeling worried, overwhelmed, or who need somebody to talk to. Operating hours are 7 am to 11 pm 7 days a week, and you can call for free.
- If you are caring for someone at the end of their life, this can be extremely emotionally demanding and it’s vital that these carers are supported. Dying Matters provide specific services and resources for these individuals, including advice and practical help for carers and health care workers on how to help people plan ahead for the end of life.
Help for Young Carers
A young carer is anyone under 18 who looks after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition or drug or alcohol problem. This can include work around the house, cooking and personal care tasks. The job of a young carer can be very emotionally demanding and some individuals may not even realise that they’re carers. If you are struggling, or need to understand your rights and how to get help, visit the NHS page, where you can get access to important resources and information.
Carers Insurance
We hope that our blog on caring for the carers, the importance of mental health for carers has been useful. If you are struggling hopefully this has given you the confidence to seek help. At Blue Badge, we are a friendly UK based team who understand the intricacies of caring and are passionate about supporting these individuals. Carers insurance isn’t a legal requirement, but in such a mentally and physically demanding job, it is highly recommended to provide you peace of mind.
We are one of the leading suppliers of Cares Insurance in the UK, offering public liability up to £5 MILLION for injury or damage to property, legal expenses in the event of a liability claim, errors or omissions whilst providing care, including administering medication, up to 90 days cover for care provision whilst on holiday and accidental injury to any person in your care. Having Carers Insurance can help maintain good mental wellbeing in an individual. This allows them to perform their job to the best of their abilities with full confidence. For further information, don’t hesitate to give the team a call.
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