Topic Tuesday // "You don't have to be isolated as a carer" // Tues 26th October, 7pm-8:30pm AEDT

[BPDSurvivor]

I have a friend who had to leave school at 12 years so she could care for her mother who had cancer. After that, she never really went back to school even when her mother passed. So I can see how being a child carer can has lasting effects @Corny 

[Daisydreamer]

@SA64 I love that you took the initative to make this peer group! It's not easy to do, and takes a huge amount of courage and strength to say "this is what I need, and there are so many other carers who will benefit"

What are some tips you would give to others who might be trying to start their own groups?

[Former-Member]

@Determined It's so great to hear that you've found a supportive bunch of people here on the forums – that's exactly what this is all about 

Having a safe and supportive place to share your story, without fear or justification, can be a powerful tool in the carers toolbox.

[Daisydreamer]

Welcome @Determined 🙂 So glad you could be here! From reading through your posts on the forums the peer support you also provide in this space and your courage to share your story is helping others too!

[Corny]

That's very sad @BPDSurvivor and as you say, it would have had a huge impact on her life. Corny

[Determined]

@Daisydreamer 

When balancing carer / husband role I much prefer saying that I support my wife rather than I am her carer. 

(Other than dealing with official stuff like centrelink). 

[Daisydreamer]

@Corny So happy to hear you have support- you deserve it

[SA64]

Well, firstly I guess, you need to take a deep breath and ask for what you need if it is not available.  I asked the mental health provider to set it up because it was something I needed.  They hadn't even thought of it and then talked to other carers who got on board.
I had previously set up a private Facebook page for mothers of children with disability for support as well.  BUT with online things, you have to keep them small or they just get out of hand and you stop receiving help and end up moderating all the time.

[BPDSurvivor]

@Determined , I agree with @Former-Member , and also want to add that by you sharing your experiences as you help your darling, you are inevitably also supporting others - whether carers or not. Your insight as a carer brings invaluable insight to the forums. Thank You.

[BPDSurvivor]

True @SA64 . You don't want to end up moderating all the time. It's so great you could use social media platforms to support others in like circumstances.