Chantel talks about things that helped her in her recovery and that continue to help her.

This section is a vital part of assisting your own recovery and also for those helping or supporting someone who is experiencing mental distress.

• Caring and self care »

  You can take control of looking after your own health and wellbeing by trying to nurture yourself with a healthy balanced diet, adequate sleep and regular exercise.
  
  Caring can be a rewarding role but also one that can be challenging and emotionally draining. It is so important to look after yourself so you are able to keep looking after your loved one or friend.
  
  Some key issues to keep in mind are listed below:

  • Staying well

    Staying well - the importance of looking after your own physical and emotional wellbeing.

  • Boundary setting

    Boundary setting - Setting the limits on what feels right for you.

  • Third party

    Finding an independent third party - to share some of the negative emotions that occasionally come up. Find a safe space to vent any frustrations that may come up for you, so it can be put into perspective.

  • Compassion

    Compassion fatigue - This is particularly relevant for people who are full time or primary carers.

  • Feeling burnt out

    What do you do when you are feeling burnt out - exhausted and cannot see any change in the current situation?
    
    Select the next item for some tips to help in these situations.

  
  
  

  Reflection

  Before you move to the next section, how would you answer these questions?
  
  How much choice do I have about being a carer?
  
  Am I actually the best person to provide care and support for this person?
  
  Where are my boundaries that help keep this relationship helpful and healthy?

• Some tips for looking after yourself »

  Below are some tips to help you look after yourself.
  

  • Get some support for yourself, particularly if you are the primary carer. Sometimes it can be helpful to talk to others in a similar situation.
  • Give yourself permission to have time out away from the caring role. And then make sure you arrange regular time to yourself to re-energise.
  • Keep contact with friends and form friendships that are different from the person you care for. The importance of social connection cannot be stressed enough.
  • Read information on depression or anxiety and stay informed so you can be helpful.
  • Don't take things personally, often the person we love the most is the one who we let see us at our most vulnerable.
  • Don't be afraid to take the time for yourself and your own hobbies/sport or socialising.
  • Don't feel guilty about taking that time for yourself.
  • By setting time aside for yourself you become fully available to others without resentment or anger.

  
  The Mental Health Association of NSW has some great 'Stress Less Tips' which you'll find in 'More information and resources'

  
  

  Reflection

  Before you move to the next section, how would you answer these questions?
  
  Am I still participating in activities I enjoy doing?
  
  Do I need to make more relaxation and 'downtime' in my week? And if so, how can I make this happen?

• More information and resources »

  The Mental Health Association of NSW
  10 tips to stress less and reduce your anxiety
  http://www.mentalhealth.asn.au/well-being/campaigns/stress-less-tips.html

  10 principles of coping
  Adapted from Ken Alexander's work on the 14 principles of coping with mental illness
  http://www.publicguardian.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/agdbasev7wr/publicguardian/documents/pdf/onguard_oct_2010.pdf