Caring is rewarding, but it can also affect your own wellbeing.
The 2024 GP Patient Survey found that 70% of carers in the UK have a long-term physical or mental health condition, disability, or illness.
You might feel stressed, isolated, or overwhelmed. Looking after your health and wellbeing is vital especially if you care for someone else. Small steps, whether for your physical or mental health, can make a big difference.
How to Support Your Mental Wellbeing
Talk and Share How You’re Feeling
Caring can feel lonely or overwhelming. Talking about how you feel, even for a few minutes, can really help and you don’t have to share everything. Hearing another person’s viewpoint or just discussing a situation can provide perspective.
Try catching up with friends or family, join a local carer support group, or reach out to a professional.
"Talking or spending time with others makes us feel less alone and more supported."
Stay Organised
Caring involves juggling many responsibilities. Being organised can help you feel more in control, reducing anxiety and stress. Using a calendar or diary, making lists, or even using a scheduling app can help you feel more organised.
• Be realistic about what you can manage
• Ask for help when you need it
Make Time for Yourself
Making time for yourself is not selfish, it helps you care better for others. Self-care means something different for everyone.
The important thing is that you find something that works for you, whether it’s a cup of tea and a good book, a relaxing bath, a walk or a run, an exercise class, gardening, cooking, writing or time with friends or family.
"Rest, sleep and me time are essential."
How to Support Your Physical Wellbeing
Stay Active
Staying active helps you stay strong and cope better with caring responsibilities. Do whatever works for you in the time that you have. It might be a short walk, some stretching or gentle exercises at home, or time in the garden.
Follow You've Got This for inspiration and motivation on keeping active.
"A bit of movement each day, like a short walk or gentle stretches, can help you feel better physically and mentally."
Eat Well
Try to maintain regular meals, drink plenty of water, include fruit and vegetables at each meal and choose easy, healthy snacks for busy days.
There are resources available on the NHS's Better Health website including information about a free NHS Weight Loss Plan
You may also want to consider reducing your alcohol intake if this is something that you find you rely on to help you cope. There is local support available if you feel that you need support with this.
Middlesbrough Accessing Change Together (ACT). can support with substance use, and can also provide support around homelessness and domestic abuse.
In Redcar and Cleveland We Are With You provide services for both adults and young people (under 18's) with drug or alcohol issues. Free and confidential support is also available if you have concerns about a loved one's drug or alcohol use. Contact 0300 3033781 for support.
"You don’t have to be perfect just take steps that work for you."
Ask for Help
Know the signs – low mood, anxiety, irritability, or poor sleep can be signs to reach out for support. If things feel overwhelming, ask for help.
Talking to your GP about check-ups, vaccinations, or carer-related support is a good first step. Or contact one of the South Tees Carers support Services:
Carers Together
Teesside Mind
The Junction Foundation (for young people up to 18years)
"Asking for help isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength."
Mental Health Support Services
Need to talk? These services are here to help:
Samaritans - 116 123
No matter what you're going through, you can talk to the Samaritans. They’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and always ready to listen without judgment.
NHS 111 (option 2 for mental health advice)
If you need advice or a referral for mental health support, the NHS is here for you, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
CALMER Text Service
Simply text the word ‘CALMER’ to 85258. Shout’s mental health professionals are available 24/7 and can help if you’re feeling stressed, isolated or low.
Hub of Hope
Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope. A UK Mental Health Support Directory. Whether you want to find a service to help you feel better or want to support someone who is struggling.
Papyrus Hopeline - 0800 068 4141 - offers support and advice for young people who are struggling.
Cruse Bereavement Support
Offers support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone dies
E: TeesValley&DurhamArea@cruse.org.uk Tel: 01642 210284
Impact on Teesside (NHS Talking Therapies)
Psychological therapies and wellbeing service working with people across Teesside.
Every Mind Matters - NHS
UK Government Mental Health and Wellbeing advice including NHS recommended Apps.
You Are Not Alone