Caring for a family member as a young carer can be rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. It’s really important to prioritise your own health and wellbeing to ensure you can continue to provide support.
Here are some top tips and resources that you may find helpful.
Keeping yourself healthy is important, especially if there is someone at home who is relying on you. Consider taking the following steps:
Having good mental health is just as important as having good physical health. Do something which allows you switch off; listen to music, watch TV, meet with friends, take up a hobby.
Or find a way of processing your worries such as keeping a journal/diary or doing some art.
It is important to stay connected with people and to talk about how you feel.
Are school aware of your caring role? Have you got a Young Carer’s card so school can allow for times when you may be late with homework or need to call home?
Talk to friends and family. It is likely you will feel a wide range of emotions because you are a Young Carer. All these feelings are normal, but it is important that you do not bottle things up.
Childline is a free, private and confidential service where you can talk about anything. You can talk to someone online, on the phone, anytime.
There may be times when being a Young Carer feels overwhelming. Reach out and ask for help.
York Carers Centre is here to help, and we can provide a range of support such as Youth Clubs, day trips, drop-ins at school and one-to-one support.
