Carers Week: Millions of Reasons to Care
13-19 October 2024
In recognition of the Carers Australia national theme 'Millions of Reasons to Care', BrainLink will promote stories that showcase many of those reasons throughout the week.
BrainLink’s message is to take time out from your caring role, keep active and stay socially connected and we can help you do all of that.
Learn more about Carers Week
Mary's story
For the purposes of this story, you can call me Mary. I’ve been on quite an unexpected journey over the last 25 years, caring for family members across three generations. Each of them has faced various challenges, ranging from intellectual disabilities to the progressive struggle of Parkinson’s Disease. It’s a role I never thought I would take on full-time, but life has a way of steering you in directions you never anticipated.
When I first took on the carer role, I was balancing my responsibilities while raising my children. I always believed that once my kids were a bit older, I could return to my job in healthcare. That’s where I thought my skills could shine. However, as the situation unfolded, it became strikingly clear that my experience would be more valuable at home. So, I shifted gears, embracing a path that dramatically differed from my peers, many of whom have retired and are now enjoying vacations and exciting leisure activities.
This shift hasn’t been easy. Some days feel heavier than others, and I’ve had to grapple with the realization that I’ll be a carer for the rest of my life. But in this journey, I have grown. I’ve discovered layers of compassion within myself I didn’t know existed. Patience has become a practice—I won’t say I’m perfect at it, as it truly depends on the day and the circumstances!
What helps me cope through the challenges of this role? For one, a sense of humour is absolutely vital! Laughter can lighten heavy moments and remind me that, despite the struggles, there is always room for joy. I’m fortunate to have a small group of friends who are also carers. They understand the nuances of my daily life, the frustrations, the small victories, and the isolation that can sometimes creep in. Keeping connected with them has truly been my lifeline.
Finding time for my own interests has also been essential. It’s my escape, my time to recharge away from caring. I’ve learned that seeking counselling when necessary, can be beneficial too; it provides that little bit of extra support when I need to talk things through.
For anyone stepping into this rewarding yet challenging role, I have two pieces of advice: First, don’t neglect your own health. It’s far too easy to forget about yourself while caring for others. Secondly, don’t hesitate to ask for help before you reach the point of burnout. You won’t be able to provide the care your loved ones need if you’re running on empty. Take breaks when possible and reach out to other carers; they hold a wealth of knowledge about supports and services available.
In navigating the complexities of caring, I’ve learned that it’s important to balance my responsibilities with self-care. My journey may not have followed the path I expected, but it has moulded me into someone more compassionate, resilient, and connected to those around me.