Caring for Carers

How can I look after myself too?

There are several things you can do to help keep yourself fit and well while caring for a loved one who has GAD:

• Speak to your employer. All employers have a legal obligation to consider flexible working arrangements for carers. Raise the issue as early as possible, so they have time to plan any cover that may be required.

• Take breaks. If you’re caring for someone full time, it’s essential you occasionally take time off. Whether it’s an afternoon each week while a relative or friend takes over your duties, or even a few minutes each day to get out of the house to the local shops, having your own time to relax will help you feel refreshed. Being a carer can make you feel lonely at times, so it’s important to occasionally spend time with other people, doing things you enjoy. You shouldn’t feel guilty about this – it’s essential for your own health and wellbeing and for that of the person you’re caring for.

• Maintain a good diet. Often without realising it, the loved one you’re caring for may take priority over your own routine – even when it comes to things as important as eating properly. Try to make sure you maintain a good diet by eating plenty of fruit and vegetables. This will help keep you healthier and also give you more energy. See our diet page for further tips.

• Do things together. Someone who has been diagnosed with GAD is still the same person you have always known and loved. Sharing a joke, or perhaps doing something you’ve both always enjoyed, can help take some of the stress out of daily life.

• Remember: It’s okay to ask for help. For the sake of your own wellbeing, it’s important to ask for help when you need it. Carers UK can give you more information on the type of support available. For more information visit www.carersuk.org.

Financial support for carers

If you spend 35 hours or more each week providing care to a seriously ill or disabled person, are over the age of 16 and not in full time education and are not earning more than £100 a week (2010 – 2011 rate), then you may be able to claim Carer's Allowance (CA), a special social security benefit for full-time carers.

To find out if you qualify, contact the CA Unit on 0845 608 4321 between 8.30am and 5pm Monday to Thursday and between 8.30am and 4.30pm on Fridays. If your first language is not English, ask for information about the interpreter service. Alternatively, email cau.customerservices@dwp.gsi.gov.uk or apply online via the website at Caring for someone