This week is Carer's Week. Looking after someone with cancer can be a huge emotional and physical challenge so it’s important to take time for yourself and get support.
You might feel angry, sad or guilty. You could also feel frightened about how you will deal with the emotional as well as the pratical aspects of looking after someone. These are all normal reactions. Cancer is happening to someone you love but it has also changed your life.
Being a carer can be emotionally and physically exhausting. At times it may feel extremely difficult and you just wonder how you’re going to cope. This is a very natural response.
Some people feel guilty if it feels like hard work at times. This doesn’t mean that you don’t love or care for the person with cancer, It just means that you are human. Like everyone else when things are tough, you'll have your good and bad days.
Remember you can’t do everything alone. Most carers will need some help along the way, so don’t be afraid to ask for help from any of them when you need it. Lean on your doctors, nurses, psychologist, palliative care services, social workers, friends and relatives where you can. Carers UK can give you information and emotional support and they have support groups for carers all over the country.
