Friends, Family & Carers Forum

[Former-Member]

Hi im 20yrs old and am a carer for my pop. As well as being one of the primary carers for my 2 younger sisters as my mum works. ..

I find it very hard to get any time to myself and i suffer from 3 severe mental health conditions but i feel like im just going around in circles.
What do you find helps get time to yourself and what activities do you like to do?

[Appleblossom]

Hi @Former-Member

We try all sorts of things .. some are homey ..others are more about therapy

You have a lot of responsibility for others 

Even just dropping into the Hot Chocolate thread .. to say hello ..can break the cycles sometimes.

Take care of YOU too.

[Former-Member]

Ok thank you 🙂

[NikNik]

Hi @Former-Member

I just read your story and was wondering if you have been in contact with Young Carers before? It's a service that can help you connect with others in the same boat. Also they may have some information and advice to get support for yourself - perhaps some respite time so you can get some time to yourself.

You're a wonderful support for your pop - I hope you're taking care of yourself too.

Nik

[Former-Member]

No i haven't heard of them before but ill have a look

Thank you i try to be there for everyone and im one of the primary carers for my 2 younger sisters as well

I never put myself first and i feel really selfish it i do things for myself so don't really do me

[NikNik]

If you think about it though @Former-Member , taking care of yourself and your own wellbeing means you're in an even better position to care for someone else. So it may feel selfish - but it's a win-win for you & your loved ones.

I hope Young Carers can help you out, because you deserve the support. Your family is lucky to have you.

[Former-Member]

Thank you @NikNik

Ill try to think about it that way esp everytime i do something for myself 🙂

Ive had a quicker look at the young carers link and there could be something useful there 🙂