You pour everything into caring for your child. But you matter too, and looking after yourself is not a luxury, it is part of caring well.
Know the signs
Exhaustion, feeling numb, snapping more easily, or losing interest in things you normally enjoy, these are signs you need support, not signs you are failing. Carer burnout is real, and common.
Small things that protect you
- Protect a little time that is yours. Even ten minutes counts.
- Lower the bar on the non-essentials. Not everything has to be done today.
- Accept help when it is offered, and be specific when people ask what they can do.
Support you are entitled to
- You can ask your local authority for a Carer's Assessment of your own needs.
- You may be eligible for Carer's Allowance and other support.
- Tell your GP that you are a carer, it can unlock local services and flag you for extra support.
You are not alone
Peer support helps most of all. Talking to other parents who simply get it, without having to explain, lifts a weight you may not even realise you are carrying.
If you are struggling to cope, please reach out: Samaritans on 116 123, free and 24/7, or text SHOUT to 85258.
Open the benefits checker
See what you may be able to claim, from DLA to Carer's Allowance, in about a minute.
You don't have to do this alone
Join SEN2gether to ask other parents and carers who have been where you are.
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