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Family Library · Topic guide

Support for the person doing the caring

Caregiving includes unpaid practical or emotional support for someone who needs help. You may think of yourself first as a partner, child, parent or friend.

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You do not need to reach breaking point

Caring can gradually take more time and energy. Ask for support when your own health, rest, work or other relationships are being squeezed.

Why the load can grow

Work, family responsibilities and care can compete. Your needs may change as the other person’s needs change, even if you have managed well before.

Make help specific

Ask for a defined task: a meal, an appointment trip or time covering care. Keep contact with someone you trust and plan who could help if you became unavailable.

Ask the treating team about practical skills, emotional support and options that fit your responsibilities. Group support can be one option.

Your health also deserves attention

Persistent low mood or difficulty coping is a reason to seek help for yourself. You do not have to wait until you can no longer provide care.

If care arrangements need to change, involve the person where possible and discuss who can share responsibility.

Other family topics

Memory changes: a starting point for families · Sleep difficulties: help for you and your family · Anxiety and panic: understanding what is happening · Low mood, connection and staying safe

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Common questions

Do I count as a caregiver if I am just helping family?

Yes. A caring role may develop gradually, alongside being a partner, relative or friend.

Is taking a break a failure?

No. Planned breaks and shared care can support your wellbeing. Arrange suitable cover so the person’s needs are met while you rest.

How do I ask relatives for help?

Name one practical task and when help is needed. A specific request can be easier to respond to than a general request to help more.

Does support have to mean one-to-one therapy?

No. Depending on your needs, support can include practical training, peer or group support and psychological help.

What if I am worried about my own mood?

Talk to a healthcare professional, especially if you are struggling to cope or low mood is persisting. Your needs matter too.

Something practical

Try a two-minute grounding pause · Keep a private sleep diary

Sources