Being a carer is a responsible, demanding and yet rewarding role to take on. Some people choose the role as a defined career choice, working either in a residential or nursing home. Others, however, are thrust into the role without notice or preparation. This can often happen when an elderly relative cannot care for themselves properly any more, or a partner falls ill and needs looking after.

In the latter case, becoming a carer can feel like an isolating and stressful experience. In a care home you would expect to work shifts and have time off to recharge your batteries. But of course this doesn’t happen in the real world, when the person you care for may well be living under the same roof as you. It turns the task into a twenty four hours a day, seven days a week responsibility.

This doesn’t mean you should be afraid of the role. However it does mean it is essential to get all the help and advice you can. For example, are there any allowances you or the person you are caring for can claim? This may depend on whether you are able to continue working while you are caring for someone. Some are unable to, and it largely depends on the reason for you becoming a carer in the first place.

Talk to your doctor for advice and support too – particularly if you are feeling stressed and unable to cope with your situation. Many people struggle to cope and feel as if they have to soldier on alone. But there are support groups and other sources of advice out there that can help you feel less isolated. It can sometimes feel as if you are alone, when that isn’t the case.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your family either. Even if becoming a carer was your choice to make, perhaps someone else could take up the slack once in a while. Perhaps a weekly opportunity to go out swimming or even just to the shops on your own or to meet friends would be welcome?

Caring can be a job of highs and lows. But knowing you aren’t alone in the role can help to make even the lows more bearable.