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Taking Care of YourselfCarers are more likely to experience poor physical and mental wellbeing than the general population. This is because they juggle care for others, working and caring for themselves. Most of the time caring for others is done in isolation with little emotional support or understanding from families, friends and their workplaces. Engaging in regular physical activity, relaxation and eating a balanced diet can support a Carers' overall wellbeing as well as ensuring they have regular physical health check-ups with a GP. Attending a Carer Support Group can also be helpful for social & emotional support. Below is a checklist that can be used as a guide for Carers to selfcare:
What if I'm not coping?Most Carers will tell you that they have times when they feel they are unable to cope. If you are feeling this way, seek someone to talk to, either your family, friends, doctor, minister or a counsellor. Carer support groups are also a inexpensive way to meet others who share similar experiences to you and also offer social/recreational group activities that support your well-being. If you need to speak to someone in confidence or don't know where to find help, Carers NSW can provide face-to-face counselling by calling the Carer Line on 1800 242 636 or if you prefer to speak to a counsellor by telephone, you can call the Carer Gateway Counselling on 1800 422 737 These are free services to all Carers that reside in NSW.
Counselling Services that are available for Carers
Staying ConnectedWhen the caring role is very demanding, a Carer may find that there is little time for socialising or, they may have needed to leave work or other social commitments in order to care for others. Even though the caring responsibility can place demands on a Carer's time, it's important not to disconnect from those around them who could be a potential source of support. Carer Support Groups provide Carers with an opportunity to socialise with other people who have similar experiences, talk, learn and have fun. View or Download our directory 'Carer and Other Support Groups SWS' from our Publications & Resources menu. The Carers NSW website has more information related to Carer wellbeing and supports. Australian Men's Sheds provide men from all walks of life and ages with a place to meet, share stories, experiences and work on shed projects that benefit themselves and their communities. MensLine Australia have a self-care toolkit available on their website and they also offer 24/7 telephone counselling on 1300 789 978 or an online chat option for men who are having family or relationship problems. Carer Peer Connect is an online platform that provides opportunities for carers in New South Wales to be linked with each other to receive and provide assistance and support. It supports the establishment of new, face-to-face carer support groups and give existing groups a platform to continue conversations online www.carerpeerconnect.org.au
Mindfulness and Relaxation Activities
Mindfulness involves paying attention each moment to things as they are, with an open hearted and non-judgemental attitude. When we are 'mindful' we are totally focused on what we are doing, seeing, smelling, sensing etc. thereby engaging in our lives by being more fully present. Mindful awareness can be applied to experiencing every day activities such as eating, walking, washing the dishes/car, having a bath, gardening etc. The more enjoyable the activity the easier it is to stay focused on the task. Mindfulness is a skill that can be developed with practice. When mindfulness meditation is practised on a regular basis, it can help us step out of habitual patterns of stress. Other forms of mindfulness are sporting activities, yoga, tai-chi, martial arts, reading, sewing, arts & crafts, working out puzzles, games and you could also try a mindfulness activity by exploring some of these free Web-based mindfulness programs:
SWSLHD Carers Program Publication that introduces Carers to mindfulness practice. |
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