A Note To Carers
Looking after someone who is severely ill, no matter what the condition, is extremely hard. This is even worse when the illness is ME, as so little is understood about it and there is very little that can be done.
There are times when everything is an uphill battle and the severely affected person seems to keep getting worse no matter what you do. This is heartbreaking to watch, the powerlessness is unbearable; but remember you will get through it. Things will get better, they will just take time.
You may find it necessary to get in extra help from carers provided by social services or hired privately. For more details contact: -
Crossroads
0845 4500350
The British Nursing Association
0800 657575
You can get a copy of the Carers’ Guide to Assessment, about help available from Social Services. There is also a book on caring for people, called Caring For Someone At Home, available from Amazon and the Carers Association.
Contact the Carers National Association for help and advice. The carers line is open 10-12 am and 2-4 pm Monday – Friday.
08457 573369
Make sure you explain the situation to the carer. As with everyone you will find some will understand, others won’t. You may have to change carers until you find the right one for you.
Don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed for asking for help. You need as much support as the sufferer. You may find it useful to talk to a counsellor. Some carers have to take anti-depressants like the sufferer, what’s important is doing whatever you have to, to get yourself and your severely affected person through this hard time. It will get better!
Some people choose to keep a diary. By writing everything down it helps to get it out of their head and on to paper.
The most important thing is to keep your sense of humour. Look out for ME advantages in every situation and don’t dwell on what could have been. Just deal with the now. Remember one day this will all seem like a bad dream.