Tips to help you cope.

As a caregiver, you play a vital role in your household. But managing all your many  responsibilities can be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you cope.

Talk it out

Having an open conversation with the person you’re providing care for can help you both gain a clear, mutual understanding of your role. Be honest about the support you are able to provide to help manage your loved one’s expectations.

Connect with other young caregivers

Other young caregivers who understand the challenges you’re facing can be a great source of advice, tips and emotional support. Join our online peer support group. Talk about it in our online discussion forum.

Ask for support

Everyone needs help now and then. Think about the kind of support you need and who might be able to help. Maybe a relative could step in to give you an occasional break. Maybe a teacher can extend a deadline. Perhaps a friend could run some errands for you.

Make a plan
A long list of things to do can seem overwhelming and you might not know where to start. One tip is to pick one small thing you can do quickly – it’ll feel good to check something off your list and help you focus on the rest. Another tip is to write out your to-do list at the end of each day. That way you won’t worry about it all night and lose sleep.

Learn as much as you can

• Call the 24/7 caregiver helpline at 1-833-416-2273 (CARE) to speak to a Community Resource Specialist
• Use our live chat to find resources in your community and join the conversation in our online forum
• Search this site for information, resources and support
• Talk to your family doctor or your loved one’s physician, or other health care provider. Bring a list of questions with you to appointments
• Call 211 or visit www.211.ca for free and confidential information about Canadian health and community services available in your area