Life of a carer - Finally taking care of myself.

As a carer, I have spent numerous years putting the person I care for, first. Frantically running them around to appointments, managing their daily activities, and all the little things in-between which build up and eventually lead to burning myself out.

Isolation has provided me with the time and the space to focus on myself. I have indulged in regular baths with my favourite candles burning, consuming myself in reading, and going on daily walks down to my local cafe - supporting them by buying my fave drink on their menu - a choc banana smoothie! I have put my mental health first and have given myself the time and space now to work with my psychologist on implementing strategies and supports I once deemed myself "too busy" and "not a priority" for.

Our family has commenced a Sunday ritual which is home made pizza and games. This provides routine, quality time and most importantly -FUN to our week.

My caring role can still be difficult, there are days that are still hard, but isolation has helped me bring calm to chaos.