What Nobody Warns You About: 7 Tips for Coping with Being a Young Carer

1. Talk to Your Teachers

The first tip on being a young carer is to talk to your teachers. Having home responsibilities is likely to affect your performance at school, so if teachers are aware of your situation they can take steps to help. They may be able to refer you to people who can help, such as government departments, charities and young carers' groups in your local area. Many schools also have specialized support for students in your position, and managing stress while studying is crucial for your long-term success.

2. Local Groups

It's unfortunate that there are so many young carers, but the fact that it is quite common means that there are many local support groups. There may well be one near you, so check what is available in your area. These groups can help with many issues, from giving you advice to providing a place for young carers to meet. It can be very helpful to meet other people in the same situation and know that you are not alone. Connecting with others who understand your journey is a key part of looking after yourself.

3. Online Support

There are also tons of online support groups, which are a wonderful resource for those times when you feel very alone. Many have an online forum, where you can always find someone to chat to. Here are just a few of the online groups for young carers: Young Carers (UK); youngcarers.net.au; youngcarers.ca; aacy.org (US). It's also worth checking out the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for general support if you're feeling overwhelmed.

4. Look after Yourself

It may seem that you have far too much on your plate to even think about having fun. But when you're caring for someone, you must take time to enjoy yourself and get away from responsibilities. If you don't, you'll get tired and unhappy. Go out with your friends, watch TV, or spend time on a hobby. It's really important to have time to enjoy yourself. Practicing daily self-care isn't selfish; it's necessary for your health.

5. Seek Help

Your parents may be reluctant to let anyone know they need help. They may think that social services will decide that they aren't coping, or be embarrassed that they need help. Do encourage your parents to find out what help is available; there may be a lot of resources available. Reaching out to organizations like Mind can provide valuable guidance for the whole family.

6. Be a Child

As a young carer you have responsibilities that you shouldn't have. It can make you feel grown up before your time. So take time to be a child and enjoy your life. You might have to be very organised to find free time, when you have so much to do at home. But try to forget your responsibilities and just have fun. You deserve to experience the same joys as your peers and maintain your independence as much as possible.

7. Be Proud of Yourself

Finally, be proud of yourself. You may think you're doing nothing special, but there are many adults who couldn't do what you do. You're looking after your family and helping your parents. You're a strong person and you're doing really well to cope. Remember, being a strong person means knowing when to lean on others too. You are performing an incredible service for those you love.

Kids really shouldn't have to be carers, but since it's not an ideal world many do find themselves in that situation. It's really important to ask for help and make sure that teachers and other family members know how much you have to do. People can't help if they don't know. Do you know any young carers? What advice or support has helped you the most?