Carers – you have the right to a rest
Caroline Hamilton, adult carers team lead at North Tyneside Carers
shares some insights on the need for rest
It’s easy for carers to sometimes overlook their own health and wellbeing while focusing on the needs of others, leading to “carer burnout” – a decrease in both physical and mental health.
This month we will be focusing on carers’ rights in the lead up to Carers Rights Day on 21st November and in this blog I will set out some of the resources and tools you have at your disposal as a carer to keep you healthy and happy.
Stay healthy
It can be difficult to focus on your own health while caring for someone else, but keeping physically well will allow you to be at your best for the person you’re supporting. Some ways you can help stay healthy include setting aside time for daily exercise. Even a 15-minute walk can improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and boost mood. At North Tyneside Carers’ Centre we organise regular meetups and events, including walks – look out for those on our website. Also, eating balanced meals can help maintain energy levels and keep immune systems strong. Preparing meals in advance can be helpful for busy days.
For more information about how to look after your health and wellbeing click here.
Make time for relaxation
Caring can be emotionally exhausting, especially when juggling a lot of responsibilities, so building in moments for relaxation is crucial. Easier said than done, but taking just 5 or 10 minutes a day to sit quietly can be a powerful way to relieve stress. Making time for hobbies, even for a short period of time, can be a much-needed break from caring.
Connection
Isolation can often affect carers, leading to feelings of loneliness and increased stress. Building a support network with others who understand your experiences can be an immense relief. We have Peer Support Groups at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre, where you can come and chat to people in the same boat. Speaking to people who understand the challenges you face could really help.
The next meeting of the all carers peer support group is Tuesday 12 November from 2.30pm to 4pm in Wallsend Library. For more information click here.
Some of the other ways we can help you at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre is by providing advice and guidance about services available to you, supporting you in getting work or training, providing sessions on wellbeing and resilience, and also access to peer support groups.
Carers perform essential roles, often at the cost of their own wellbeing. Remember, caring for yourself is not a luxury – it’s essential. By incorporating self-care practices and seeking support you can continue your caregiving role without sacrificing your own health.
