By: Bec Harris
Caring for a loved one is one of the most selfless roles a person can take on.
Yet, many people providing care don’t even recognise themselves as carers. They see it as just helping out a family member or friend. However these unpaid carers are crucial in supporting Australia’s most vulnerable people.
Who Are Carers?
In Australia, there are millions of unpaid carers. Deb Childs, CEO of Helping Minds explains, “Providing care or support to a loved one, a family member, or a friend without financial compensation is what caregiving is about.”
Carers do many things, such as:
- Taking family members to medical appointments
- Helping with housework and shopping
- Providing emotional and social support
- Assisting with daily needs, especially in aged care or disability support
Often, people don’t realise they are carers because they see it as part of their family responsibilities. But these duties go above and beyond normal family roles, especially when someone has a serious illness or disability.
The Challenges Carers Face
Carers juggle many responsibilities, which can lead to burnout. “The biggest challenge is burning the candle at both ends,” Deb says. Many carers also have jobs, children, or other commitments, making it difficult to balance everything.
Self-care is crucial. “You need to put on your own oxygen mask first,” Deb explains. If carers don’t look after themselves, they risk emotional and physical exhaustion. Stress, anxiety, and even depression are common. Lack of sleep and social isolation can also affect their health.
The Financial and Employment Struggles of Carers
Many carers struggle financially. Government support exists, but it’s often limited. “There’s the Carer Gateway, which provides access to counselling, education, and peer support,” Deb says. However, not everyone qualifies, and respite services are scarce.
Employment is another challenge. “Sometimes a caring role impacts your job,” Deb explains. While some workplaces offer flexibility, not all do. Carers may have to take personal leave, but “ten days a year isn’t enough if you’re balancing full-time work with full-time caring.”
The Need for More Support
A surprising number of people take on caring roles. “It’s estimated that 11% of the population are carers,” Deb shares. That’s about three million Australians. Yet, many remain unrecognised for their efforts.
Carers need more support, including better access to respite care. “There used to be great respite programs,” Deb recalls. “But when NDIS came in, things changed. Respite wasn’t recognised at first, but now people are pushing to bring it back.”
Advocates are working to ensure carers receive the support they need. “We need to keep raising awareness,” Deb urges.
Warning Signs of Carer Burnout
Caring for a loved one can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it also comes with significant emotional and physical demands. Many carers do not realise the toll their role is taking until they are overwhelmed. Recognising the warning signs of burnout and accessing available support is crucial to maintaining both personal well-being and the quality of care provided.
Carers often become so focused on the needs of their loved ones that they neglect their own. Some common warning signs include:
- Isolation – Being so caught up in daily responsibilities that you lose social connections.
- Exhaustion – Feeling constantly drained and lacking energy.
- Declining Invitations – Avoiding social events or neglecting personal interests.
- Feeling Overwhelmed – The sense that your responsibilities are never-ending.
- Neglecting Self-Care – Skipping meals, exercise, or personal downtime.
If these signs sound familiar, it may be time to reevaluate your approach to self-care and seek support.
Prioritising Self-Care
One of the most common mistakes carers make is thinking, “I’ll just push through one more day.” However, continuing without taking breaks can lead to full burnout, making it impossible to continue providing care. Prioritising self-care is essential. This can include:
- Taking time to relax, such as having a cup of tea or engaging in a hobby.
- Maintaining a strong support network of friends and family.
- Setting aside moments for activities that bring joy and relief.
- Seeking professional support when needed.
Available Support Services
Carers do not have to navigate this journey alone. Various organisations provide assistance, including:
- Helping Minds – Offers counselling, advice, and a self-care blog with practical tips.
- Carer Gateway – Provides information and support tailored to carers.
- Local Support Groups – Community groups that offer companionship and shared experiences.
Final Thoughts
Caring for someone is a significant responsibility, but it should not come at the expense of your own well-being. Recognising the signs of burnout, taking proactive steps toward self-care, and utilising available support services can help maintain a healthier balance. Remember, looking after yourself enables you to provide the best possible care for your loved one.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva