For many people caring for a family member or friend at home can be an extremely isolating experience. Supporting family or neighbours with their everyday needs can be overwhelming and can end up with a person withdrawing from society and having to cope with the extra burden of loneliness.
What is loneliness and how can it affect mental health?
Loneliness is what people feel when their need for social contact is not met. Feelings of loneliness are personal and is not always the same as being alone.
Some people enjoy living with minimal contact with other people, but others may feel very lonely in the same situation. Loneliness can have a huge impact on mental health and can cause depression, anxiety and increased stress.
Tips for caregivers on how to deal with loneliness
Many carers struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Below are some tips to help you as a caregiver to cope.
Stay in touch with family and friends
Staying in touch with family, friends, and other carers can help to prevent loneliness and improve mental health. It is important to remember that you are not alone.
Keeping in touch via video calls or regular phone calls are great ways to stay connected and bring positivity when you are feeling down.
Doing a quiz or playing games on a video call are great ways to make it more special and helps with creativity and can give you some respite.
Creating a routine for staying in touch gives you something to look forward to as well.
Speak to other carers
Family and friends may not understand what you are going through as a carer and it can be valuable to speak to other who share what you experience.
Care for a cuppa has been set up by Carers UK during Carers Week to connect care workers in the UK through informal video calls. They also have a helpline: 0800 808 7777.
There is always someone to talk to
The Samaritans offers a listening service free from judgement that is available 24 hours a day to anyone feeling alone.
There are many other sources of support available to you if you are struggling to cope. Never hesitate to reach out, there is always someone to talk to.
Tips to cope as a caregiver
Carers play an essential role in looking after those who need the most support and it can be difficult to cope.
It is important that you remember to take care of yourself too. Below are some advice to help you look after your wellbeing.
- Make time for yourself and do things that you enjoy.
Taking breaks and finding moments for yourself can give you peace of mind. Whether it is gardening, reading, yoga or other exercise, it can help you recharge your batteries.
- Be organised and find a routine.
Creating a daily routine for you and the person you care for can help you keep emotions in check and help you be proactive. Use a calendar to note down daily and upcoming tasks such as picking up medication.
- Plan in advance.
Have plans in place for emergency situations. This can give you a sense of control and reduce stress because you will feel more prepared when a situation arises.
- Communicate with the person you care for.
It is a difficult time for all and talking to each other about how you feel and working together can save you plenty of frustration.
- Go outside.
Try to get out and about regularly for some fresh air, whether it is for a walk or spending some time in the garden. It breaks up the day and benefits both you and the person you care for.
- Try to get enough sleep.
It can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep as a carer. Try to find ways to wind down and avoid screen time, such as reading a book or having a bath before bed.
- Don’t feel guilty, you are doing the best you can.
Being a carer is not easy and you should not have guilt over not doing enough. You are doing the best you can under the current circumstances.
