Since the start of the pandemic and all the added stress and worry caused by the various lockdowns and the worry of keeping myself and my parents safe and covid free my mental health has worsened to the point where I needed help and support. After speaking with the nurse practitioner at my GP practice I am now on anti-depressants and for the last few weeks I have also been having weekly counselling sessions arranged through the Care Collective.

At first I wasn’t sure if the counselling would help any, but having somebody listen to my concerns in a non judgemental way and then offer support and coping strategies is really helping. In just a few weeks I’ve learned not to open too many doors when I’m worried about something, but rather to take a step back and think about whether or not what I’m worrying about is something I can control before opening the first door and to then take things one step at a time. I’ve also learnt to write things down rather than having all those thoughts swirling around constantly in my head.

So, if you are an unpaid carer and your mental health is suffering then please don’t be afraid to ask for counselling because it really can help.

This blog that I’ve created here also helps as I can get my worries, concerns and frustrations out into the world and hopefully help others see that they’re not alone.