Did you know? In Gloucestershire, there are approximately 52,000[i] unpaid carers who look after a loved one or friend due to frailty, physical or mental illness, or disability.
This year’s Carers Week aims to highlight the challenges that unpaid carers face, as well as the incredible work they do within the community. It is also an opportunity to encourage those who don’t consider themselves as carers, yet have caring responsibilities, to identify as one, and access support that is available through Gloucestershire NHS Talking Therapies.
According to a Carers UK survey[ii], a high proportion of carers said their mental health has been affected by caring, with 79% of carers feeling stressed or anxious, 49% feeling depressed, and 50% feeling lonely. The survey found that many are continuing to care, despite being at breaking point.
It is important to ensure that as a carer, you manage to take time for yourself and look after both your physical and mental health. The Gloucestershire NHS Talking Therapies service offers support to anyone over the age of 18 in the county who is suffering with common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, stress and low mood.
Mental health problems can present in many ways and when how you are feeling starts to impact your day-to-day life and general sense of wellbeing, happiness or relationships, it might be the right time to get some help.
To find out more about the service and to make a self-referral, visit www.letstalkglos.nhs.uk or call 0800 073 2200. You do not need to visit your GP in order to access our support. After referring yourself to the service, you will be invited to an assessment call with a trained clinician who will discuss how you are feeling and the treatment options available to you. Treatments are delivered by trained therapists and can either be provided online, on the phone or in person.
[i] 2021 Census
[ii] Carers UK, State of Caring Survey 2023
