When you are caring for someone else it can be very easy to overlook your own needs. Looking after your own wellbeing and health is a very important part of caring. 

If you are not looking after yourself then how can you look after someone else properly? It is important that you make time for yourself to allow yourself to cope better with your caring role.

Carers can be under immense pressure and you may need to be assertive when you are asking for help. Do not wait for a crisis, get help as early as possible.

There are ways that you can look after yourself as well as the person you care for. Try asking for help from family and friends. Ask them to care for your loved one perhaps for a few hours a week so that you can have a rest. 

Respite care for dementia

Maybe ask if they could stay over night or even juts pop to the shops for you. If they can do a few tasks for you a week it may be a huge weight off of your shoulders. 

You are entitled to a free carer's assessment from your local council to help you gain access to support. We encourage you to do this as it will allow you to have help and support when you need it. Before the assessment, have a good think about how your caring role has affected your life and what would help you manage better. 

There is plenty of help and support available to you. Contact your local council's social services department to begin the process of getting some help.