Being able to talk honestly about how you are feeling is a good start. Often it can help to have these conversations with someone who is close to you – the person dying, a family member or friend – while sometimes it’s easier to confide in someone who is not directly involved in the situation. If you’re uncomfortable talking about your emotions or are struggling to make sense of what is happening, then your GP, a counsellor or a Violet Guide are among those you can turn to for support.
Taking regular breaks is another way that you can look after yourself, both physically and emotionally. As well as calling on the people around you to help with the practical work of caring, respite services can let you have timeout to rest and recharge.
Caring for someone in the final stages of life can take its toll on your health and wellbeing, especially if you are caring for the person over a long period of time. Taking the time to manage your emotional needs can:
You can seek support at any time and it can be ongoing or only when you feel you need it. Remember that asking for help can ease some of the difficulties you might face while caring. Talking to someone in the early stages of caring can help you understand the situation you are facing and assist you to prepare and plan for what lies ahead.
To speak with a Violet guide, make a booking. Or join our community of people who have experience caring for a dying person and can help guide you through this process.
There are many counselling services available, both paid-for and cost-free. To find one that suits you, ask your friends, family, colleagues or clinical contacts, or try the services below. Support groups, also listed below, are another good source of help and advice for caregivers in many different situations (parents, children, disease-specific, culturally and linguistically diverse etc.); they meet in person, by phone or online.
You can also contact the following: