How can carers look after their own mental wellbeing?

It’s so important to take ‘me time’ out of the day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Techniques include centering yourself by sitting somewhere quiet or taking deep breaths and relaxing. Going for a walk or having a change of scenery can help break up your day and put things into perspective. It can also lower cortisol, the body’s stress hormone.

Alternatively, calling a friend or reaching out to a family member, or going to a cafe or joining a group, are all important ways you can switch off. Spending time socialising with others is important as it can provide an outlet to talk about the challenges you might be facing. It can also help maintain a sense of identity. Often, caring responsibilities can cause loneliness and isolation, which can be all-consuming. Carving out time to connect with others over common interests might remind you what’s important to you, and that you’re much more than a caregiver.

Most importantly, people should go easy on themselves – you can’t do it all. Accepting help from others is hard, but just taking someone up on an offer to collect a prescription or do some shopping can make a big difference to your day.

What are the benefits of doing this?

It’s vital to let the stresses of the day leave the body and mind and have a period where you can expel any frustrations, such as repetitive questions (a common symptom of dementia). This helps you return to the person you’re caring for more refreshed and attuned to them, as you have been able to deal with your own emotions.

Reaching out to others, even for just a quick chat, can help you to feel connected. Having a strong social network also provides emotional resilience and can help you cope more effectively with the challenges of caring for someone.

One Good Thing: why carving out time for yourself is vital as a carer