Awareness about mental health and the impact of mental illness is growing, and more people recognise important signs in themselves and others early on. More people are also finding themselves in a carer role for loved ones with mental health concerns. Providing care and support can be rewarding but also very taxing for the carer. 

If you find yourself caring for or supporting someone experiencing mental health concerns, then getting an understanding of their mental illness and the best means of support is key. At the same time, looking after yourself and recognising signs that the caring role is taking a toll on you are just as important. 

Supporting someone else

Each individual and the level of care they need is different, but there are several ways to support someone struggling with their mental health effectively: 

• Find out as much as you can about their mental illness by talking about their experience, researching, or contacting dedicated support lines or professional services.
• Listen and talk to the person about what they need in terms of practical, social and emotional support and what they find helpful and unhelpful. 
• Be honest about what you feel you can assist with and what may not be possible or comfortable for you. 
• Avoid judgement and remember they are not their mental illness. 
• Encourage and empower the person to engage in self-care strategies by practising them yourself or offering to join them (e.g. asking them to exercise with you). 
• Encourage them to consider professional support options but respect their decision if they are not ready. 
• Be aware of warning signs that the person’s mental health may be declining  
• Have a plan for managing crises that may arise. Familiarise yourself with local crisis services such as the closest hospital emergency department and local mental health crisis team. Take discussion about suicide or self-harm seriously. 
• Be patient and recognise that recovery takes time, looks different for everyone and that setbacks are normal. 

Looking after yourself

Caring for or supporting someone else can take a toll on your physical and emotional wellbeing and impact your own mental health. Looking after your own needs will reduce the impact on you and ensure you can provide quality care and support for others. Good self-care should include: 

• Having realistic expectations for yourself, knowing your limits and having clear boundaries around what you can offer. 
• Creating balance and taking breaks when needed to unwind or do things you enjoy.
• Sharing the caring responsibilities where possible and expanding the person’s support network.
• Acknowledging your own feelings, talking to friends and family, or seeking professional support if needed.
• Exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep and socialising.

Signs of Carer Fatigue

Carer fatigue can set in over time or sneak up on you. Noticing some of these possible signs may suggest that you need extra self-care or might need to reach out for help yourself: 

• Mood changes such as feeling down, irritable, angry or hopeless.
• Changes in sleep patterns or appetite.
• Losing interest in socialising or enjoyable activities.
• Losing patience, empathy or focus or feeling cynical.
• Feeling constantly stressed, ‘burnt out or exhausted.
• Increased physical complaints like headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, or frequent illness.
• Using unhealthy coping strategies like drugs or alcohol.

If caring for someone with mental health concerns is taking a toll and you are looking for support, Benestar can help. Please call us to find out more about our health and wellbeing resources or to request an appointment with a clinician. 

Written by Darjana Valle, Benestar Digital Clinician.