Back

Carers Support

Looking after a loved one can have a negative effect on your emotions. You may feel stressed, overwhelmed, trained, angry and or guilty because of the changes to your life as a result of caring for a loved one. This can also be a very lonely place as well as making you upset due to the changes to relationship with the person you care for.

These feelings can be worsened when combined with other effects of caring like being tired, under financial pressure, or fighting for support of the person you care for.


Signs

  • As a carer, you may be so focused on your loved one that you don't realize that your own health and well-being are suffering. Watch for these signs of carer’s stress:
  • Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
  • Feeling tired often
  • Getting too much sleep or not enough sleep
  • Gaining or losing weight
  • Becoming easily irritated or angry
  • Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
  • Feeling sad
  • Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems
  • Abusing alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications
Too much stress, especially over a long time, can harm your health. 

As a carer, you are more likely to experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. In addition, you may not get enough sleep or physical activity, or eat a balanced diet — which increases your risk of medical problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.