Support for carers
Caring for someone with cancer can be physically and emotionally draining. It can also affect your work, study or family life.
It is important to look after yourself, and get help and support when you need it.
Being a carer
Being a carer is an important role, but it can take time to adjust to this situation. You may need to look after things like medications, appointments or finances that you are not be used to. If you are unsure, talk to the nurse, specialist or GP.
As a carer, you can go through a range of emotions, including anger, frustration, worry, stress, loneliness, guilt, grief and depression. It is important to take care of yourself and recognise when you need help.
Getting support as a carer
There are a number of resources on this page where you can get information about:
- looking after yourself
- mental health and emotional needs
- counselling
- support groups
- talking to health professionals
- planning ahead
- managing medications
- finances
- work
- respite care.
Other resources we recommend
Use the following links to find out more about this topic.
Support when caring for someone with cancer
http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/get-support/caring-for-someone-with-cancer/
Carers, family and friends (podcasts)
https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/topics/carers-family-and-friends/
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Cancer Council Mon-Fri 9am-5pm13 11 20
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Carers NSW Mon-Fri 9am-5pm1800 242 636
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Carer Gateway Mon-Fri 8am-6pm1800 422 737
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Centrelink - Carers Mon-Fri 8am-5pm13 27 17