#016 - The Not So Simple Act of Caring (Prof. Fiona Lobban & Lizzi Collinge)

So, what does caring for somebody with severe mental health issues involve, and who typically takes on this role?

In today’s episode I'm joined by Prof. Fiona Lobban and Lizzi Collinge to discuss the emotional impact that being a carer can have, such as feelings of self blame, isolation and the threat of social stigma, and thus why carers are more susceptible to developing their own mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

We explore how caring can alter, and sometimes destroy, the dynamics of certain relationships, the impact that caring can have on people’s social lives, the art of knowing when to step in and take control versus knowing when to step back and let go, and why communication is the key to avoiding anger and resentment.

We look at some of the costs involved in caring and how it can sometimes affect a person’s ability to work, the kind of support that already exists for carers and what needs to improve, the importance of speaking to other people with lived experience in keeping up morale, and all-in-all, why carers are ultimately the unsung heros of our mental health system.

For show notes and to join the conversation visit: http://myownworstenemy.org/podcast

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