Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others: Managing Stress as a Carer

Author: Edward Herbert

‍

Being a carer is one of the most selfless roles a person can take on. Whether you’re supporting a family member, friend, or neighbour, your dedication makes a huge difference in their life. But in the process of caring for others, it’s easy to forget about your own well-being. Over time, stress can build up, leading to burnout, exhaustion, and even health problems.

‍
I know this feeling all too well. Caring for my sister has been one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences of my life. There have been long nights, unexpected hurdles, and moments where I felt completely drained. But I’ve also learned that taking care of myself and having the right support can make a huge difference. In this blog, I want to share some of the key things that have helped me manage stress as a carer—including how something as simple as my National Carers Card came in handy one late night at the hospital.

‍
1. Why Looking After Yourself Matters

Caring for someone often means putting their needs before your own, but constantly doing so can take its toll. You might find yourself feeling exhausted, struggling to sleep, or becoming easily overwhelmed. When stress builds up, it can affect not only your mental health but also your ability to provide care. That’s why taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Even small moments of self-care, like a short walk, a cup of tea in peace, or a conversation with a friend, can help reset your mind and body.

‍
💡 Tip: Think of self-care like recharging a battery. You can’t run on empty, so take time to rest and refuel when needed.
‍

2. Recognising the Signs of Stress and Burnout

I remember one particular week when my sister had a hospital procedure. I had been running around making sure she had everything she needed, barely eating or sleeping myself. By the end of it, I felt completely drained—snapping at people, struggling to focus, and feeling like I couldn’t handle one more thing going wrong. That was when I realised I needed to start looking after myself too.

‍
Some common signs of stress and burnout include:
‍

✅ Feeling constantly tired or drained
✅ Becoming easily irritated or overwhelmed
✅ Having trouble sleeping, even when you’re exhausted
✅ Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
✅ Feeling isolated or unsupported
‍

If you recognise these symptoms, it might be time to step back and think about what support you need.
‍

3. Asking for Help: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Many carers feel like they have to manage everything alone, but help is available. There are carer support groups, respite care services, and online communities where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Talking to someone—whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional—can help relieve some of the emotional weight.

‍
💡 Tip: If asking for help feels difficult, start small. Accepting a friend’s offer to help with shopping or having a short chat with a fellow carer can make a big difference.
‍

4. How the National Carers Card Helped Me Late One Night

Sometimes, being a carer means going the extra mile—literally. After my sister’s hospital procedure, she suddenly fancied something special to eat. She hadn’t had much of an appetite for days, so when she finally felt like eating, I didn’t want to miss the chance. I rushed out to get her food, but by the time I returned, the hospital doors were locked.

‍

I explained to the security guard that I was her carer, but he wasn’t sure whether he could let me back in. I was devastated.

‍

Eventually I showed him my National Carers Card. The moment he saw it, he understood—I wasn’t just a visitor, I was someone responsible for my sister’s well-being. He let me in without any hassle, and I was able to bring her food when she needed it most.

‍

It was a small moment, but it made me realise how valuable that little card really is. It can make so many situations just a little bit smoother, reducing stress and making your caring role easier.
‍

✔️ Recognition in public places – Show the card to explain your role as a carer in situations where understanding and support might be needed.
✔️ Access to discounts – Many businesses offer carer-friendly discounts, making it easier to afford essentials or enjoy a well-earned treat.
✔️ Peace of mind – If something unexpected happens, having a clear form of identification as a carer can be useful in emergencies.
‍

By making life a little easier, the National Carers Card allows you to focus on what matters most—caring for your loved one while also looking after yourself.

About the National Carers Card

‍

The National Carers Card is a form of visual identification for carers across the UK. Designed to support and acknowledge the invaluable role of carers, the card helps with accessing services, discounts, and other benefits that make daily life a little easier.

‍

Founded by carers in 2019, the National Carers Card is part of a social enterprise for good dedicated to supporting carers and their families.