A caregiver is someone who provides support at home for parents, brothers or sisters, grandparents or any other family member who has a disability, mental illness or other long-term illness.
Being a caregiver is an important job. While it can feel rewarding at times, there might be other times when you feel frustrated, angry, or alone. Caregivers often have a large responsibility, and may have to balance their own needs with the needs of those they are caring for. It’s important to remember that it’s just as important to take care of yourself.
Tips for looking after yourself:
•Take time out. It may be hard, but make time to do something that you enjoy. You may want to play a sport, hang out with friends, listento music, or go for a walk.
•Try to share the care. It may be helpful to share the responsibility with someone else. This could be a sister, brother, aunt, uncle or grandparent. It’s also important to share your feelings about being a caretaker with someone who can listen, help, and support you.
•Learn about the illness/disability of the person you are caring for. Knowing about the illness/disability may be helpful in understanding your relative’s behavior or moods. If you are giving medication, it’s a good idea to know about possible side effects.
•Talk to Someone. It is normal for you to have times when you are feeling angry, frustrated, guilty, sad, scared or worried. During those times, it may be helpful to talk to someone about how you feel. Friends, other caregivers, and family are good possibilities. If these feelings are stopping you from doing day-to-day things, it may be helpful to talk to a counselor.
Acknowledgement: This fact sheet was originally developed by youth and staff at ReachOut.com, a website that helps teens get through tough times.
