Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others

A career in care is rewarding, but like every setting the roles come with responsibilities and situations that can be demanding. While that’s true of most workplaces, when you're a Care & Support Worker, it’s even more important to pay attention to your own well-being. 

People depend on you, and to be able to support them, you need to feel good and have the right frame of mind. Looking after your physical well-being is key, but just as important is tending to your mental health. These practical tips will help you do just that.

Mental Health Matters

One of the more challenging parts of mental well-being that doesn’t get enough attention is understanding your mental health state. That means recognising patterns, spotting the warning signs and knowing how to respond. Each person is different and also various stresses can affect you in different ways, so awareness of what that looks like is key.  

Being caring means you like to give to others, and sometimes that’s not so easy to switch off. Plus, you’re caring for other people’s well-being, so it’s essential to acknowledge that. Admitting that you’re not superhuman is a strength, not a flaw. It’s also the first step to recognising these signs of stress:

• Not sleeping well or sleeping too much

• Worrying most of the time

• Feeling tired all the time

• Getting angry or irritated over small things

• Having headaches or other health issues pop up

• Losing interest in the things you used to love

• Relying more on food, alcohol or drugs to cope or distract yourself

Stress and mental health issues don’t have a magic fix. It’s better to have a toolbox full of options to try to improve your well-being. It’s also worth paying attention to early warning signs to make changes as soon as possible to maintain your well-being.

Mental Health Care Tips for Care Workers

Your physical health and mental health are connected. With that in mind, drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, exercising and sleeping well will improve both. Those are all excellent steps to take, but sometimes you need a bit more care to maintain your well-being. That’s where these tips can help.

Make Time for Yourself

Easier said than done, we know, but it’s vital. Even if you can only find 15 to 30 minutes a day, it can make a difference to your mood and general outlook. Time for yourself can mean doing something alone, but mostly it means focusing your attention on you and what you want. 

It can be fun, restful or something that helps you connect with others. Some great ways to get an extra boost are to get some sunlight and be in nature. If you spend all day on your feet, sitting down with a hot drink and a book is an ideal way to re-balance. 

Accept Support

Care & Support Workers have stressful moments at work, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do something about it or improve the situation. It could be as simple as talking to colleagues, who help make you feel less worried and validate your feelings.

It's also worth talking to your supervisor or manager about anything that’s on your mind. Not only are you sharing the burden, but together you can find solutions that make things better for everyone. You might also need to ask for or accept more help at home. Let your partner, kids, friends and family members know if you’re struggling and how they can help.

Share Your Feelings

As mentioned above, talking to colleagues, sharing your concerns with your manager and telling your struggles to your family can help. Releasing those feelings helps to verbalise the worry and stop it from sitting inside you, playing on a loop. If you’re worried about burdening others, don’t! 

That can include professional help, too. Speak to your GP if you’re experiencing the signs of stress on our list above. They can help you explore your options in terms of getting help. That could mean CBT or talking therapy to work through your worries and difficulties.

Find a Routine

It sounds simple, but a routine can help settle your mind. Staying organised and knowing exactly when you’re going to complete your tasks means you can find peace of mind. If all of your tasks are on your mind all the time, it can be tough to focus and to know where to begin.

A routine means you can get used to seeing that you can handle everything you need to do.

It becomes comfortable and familiar, putting you in control. A routine allows you to focus on what you can do. It also means you can set small goals throughout the week and feel the benefit of achieving them. 

Even if your work hours vary, find a way to adapt your routine to different shift patterns. Another benefit of this is that you can schedule the time for yourself that you need and deserve.

Take a Break Before the Burnout Hits

Don’t put off looking after your mental well-being. Doing a little each day is much easier than picking up the pieces when burnout hits. Small things, like making sure you’re taking your breaks at work, will change the balance. If it’s piling up and you’re spotting several warning signs, it’s time to take action.

It’s time to look at your routine and see if you can make more time for yourself. Are there activities you could change that will bring you more joy and rest than what you’re doing currently? If burnout is looming even after some smaller changes, take time off. Speak to your manager and your GP.  You don’t have to go through it alone.

Be Kind... to you!

As a Care & Support Worker, your compassion and dedication make a world of difference in the lives of others. But remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising your mental health isn’t just important - it’s essential. By setting boundaries, seeking support, and practicing self-care, you’re not only protecting your own well-being but also ensuring you can continue to provide the best care possible.

You deserve the same kindness and care that you give to others every day. So take a deep breath, acknowledge your efforts, and make space for yourself.

Because a well-cared-for carer is a stronger, happier, and more resilient one.