And for Carers….
The team at the Macmillan Wellbeing Centre recognise that carers (partners, family or close friends) benefit from support when someone close to them is diagnosed with cancer. Serious illness has the potential to cause many distressing emotions and thoughts – for the person diagnosed and for those who care about them. Research shows that carers frequently disregard their own needs, and their distress / stress can often be overlooked.
The Centre provides a listening ear, opportunities to mix with other carers, supportive groups and individual therapies – all aimed at helping carers to cope. However, attending these sessions can sometimes be difficult because of caring duties, hospital appointments, work and other commitments.
For those who are struggling with their carer role, or are feeling isolated because of it, I wanted to bring your attention to the Carers Blog on The Macmillan Cancer Support website:
“Looking after a loved one with cancer? This is a safe and supportive place to share your worries and emotions without worrying or upsetting family members living with cancer”.
In some of the posts on the website – carers are sharing their experiences, requesting advice, or maybe venting their feelings. Replies are kindly, respectful, and sympathetic. Sometimes there aren’t solutions, but people are still wanting to show their support and their understanding:
“Hang in there, you’re doing a good job”.
Another post was about starting a list of the top ten things people say to carers to try and be helpful – which either makes the carer smile or feel like punching them!
For example:
‘You’ve got to be strong and positive ‘ (that’s my number one hate!)
‘I haven’t phoned you because I thought you probably didn’t want to talk to anyone’
‘You should go out and enjoy yourselves’ !!!!!
Have a look on the Macmillan Cancer Support website and join the group (anonymously) if you feel this would help.
https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/carers_only/discussions
Leave a Comment