This blog has kindly been written by young adult carer Rosario in honour of Young Carer Action Day 2025.
‘As a Young Adult Carer for my mother, who has Schizoaffective Disorder, life can feel exhausting, filled with both low points and moments of positivity. Schizoaffective Disorder shares symptoms with both Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder and managing and understanding this condition is complex. I have supported my Mother over the years while studying and working. My role has involved advocating for her, reassuring her, offering emotional support, monitoring symptoms, and alerting medical professionals when necessary. I have also updated other family members and helped with practical tasks.
The theme for this year’s Young Carers Action Day – “Give Me a Break” is especially relevant as it often feels like there’s no opportunity to catch a break. One thing after another is required of you as a young carer, and it can be difficult to find time for yourself. This theme also highlights the importance of respite and self-care, which I believe is crucial for those in my position.
As a young person, life already presents its own set of challenges—studying, building friendships, entering the workforce, and navigating hobbies and relationships. Being a Young Adult Carer adds an extra layer of complexity. The carefree aspects of life often take a backseat, as you are forced to mature beyond your years and take on additional responsibilities.
That said, there is a positive side to the challenges of caring. It builds character and maturity. Personally, helping my father support my mother, especially emotionally, has helped me develop greater empathy. People with mental illnesses often suffer greatly. My Mother, for example, has frequently been frightened by voices and visual hallucinations, in addition to experiencing depression and other symptoms. This has taught me to be patient and empathetic, not only with her but with others as well. I consider these qualities as something I have gained, and they have shaped my character. Being a carer has also made me more independent, and while it’s tough at times, I’ve learned to support myself and stand on my own two feet.
However, this journey has meant that I’ve also missed out on certain experiences. The responsibility of being present in my mother’s life and supporting her has taken a toll on my mental health at times, leaving me feeling low, anxious, and sometimes even completely burnt out. I have often felt misunderstood by my peers. Even though they likely didn’t intend it, explaining my family situation was difficult, and sometimes it felt easier to spend time alone. At university, I struggled to keep pace with my studies during my mother’s more difficult periods, and I also had to take sick leave from work during times of crisis. But despite these challenges, I have managed to balance everything and continue to move forward.
In speaking with other Young Adult Carers, I’ve come to realize that every caring situation is unique, but being a young carer is hard no matter the circumstances. I’ve had moments of freedom when my mother has been doing well, and I’ve been able to experience some of the typical joys of being a young adult. But during times of crisis, this freedom disappears. For me, the most significant impact has been emotional. Seeing someone I love suffer from a mental illness and witnessing the instability it brings to our family can be emotionally draining.
No matter the circumstances, carers deserve a break and should have the chance to enjoy life. If you know someone in this position, there are ways you can help. You might offer, if appropriate, to care for their loved one to give them a break, invite them out for a change of scenery, bake them something comforting, or buy them something that helps them relax. You could also offer practical support, like cooking a meal or getting their groceries, and lending an ear if they need to share what’s going on in their lives.
I also have some tips for Young Adult Carers to help you look after yourself and give yourself the breaks you deserve. Adjust these suggestions to suit your own circumstances, but it’s important to make time for things to look forward to, whether big or small. This can be as simple as scheduling a walk or enjoying your favourite meal. When you can, treat yourself with some self-care—this could mean a bath and a face mask. Being organized with your time is key, so I recommend creating a flexible plan each week to fit in your responsibilities alongside self-care. Another great way to cope with difficult emotions is by doing something creative, such as drawing, painting, or even colouring. It’s vital, as a carer, to prioritise your own happiness and relaxation whenever possible.’
- You can also hear about Hermione’s experience as a young carer by clicking here.
- Click here to hear CSD’s Sarah talk about the support we can offer young adult carers.
- Bryony from Dorset Council explains their young carer services here.
Keep an eye on our What’s On page to find out about fun young adult carer activities going on throughout the year. Carer Support Dorset also recognises that young carers may not always feel comfortable meeting others or attending set events, often due to logistical or personal reasons. With that in mind, we are funding family activities so that young carers can enjoy quality time together as a family.
We currently have 20+ tickets available for Weymouth Sea Life Centre and are working with a few other small local activity providers across Dorset, to offer as many Young Carers and their families as possible, to be able to ‘take a break’. Call us on 0800 368 8349, or email us on admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk for more information, and to find out how we can help young adult carers just like you.
