Whether juggling family and work commitments to provide care a few hours a week, or caring 24 hours each day, if you provide regular help and support to a partner, relative or friend because they cannot manage without your help, then Carers Link is here for you.
In East Dunbartonshire 1 Person in 8 is a Carer.
If you are feeling suicidal, don’t hide it. It is vital to talk to someone you trust or phone a helpline.
If you feel that you can no longer go on and are worried for your own safety speak to the emergency services 999.
As a Carer, your own health and social needs are often forgotten or sacrificed by yourself and others. Being tired all the time gradually chips away at your ability to cope and it is easy to sometimes feel overwhelmed. When this situation continues over a long period of time and if you feel there is no end in sight, some Carers may have feelings or thoughts of suicide. If you have feelings of suicide because of your caring responsibilities - or any other reason - talking to someone can help you see beyond feelings of loneliness, stress or despair. It can help you realise that there are other options apart from ending your life.
Talk to someone
If you are having thoughts of suicide or feeling depressed or stressed, it is important you share these feelings with someone like a family member or a good friend you trust.
It can sometimes be helpful to speak to someone outside the family, either instead of or as well family or friends. Carers have often expressed that sometimes family can be too close or that they do not understand the conflicting emotions that caring sometimes bring. If you do not want to talk to about these feelings with someone you know, Carers Link is here if you need someone outside the family to talk to. We are there for you as long as you need and let you know what supports may help make your life and caring commitments more manageable. If you feel like you can no longer care we can also help you look at alternatives for the person you care for and support you in stopping caring. We can help you, just call 0800 975 2131.
Visit your GP
It is also important you visit your GP. They will be able to advise you on help that is available for your own well being, and may be able to recommend extra support for the person you are caring for. They are the gateway for most services.
Make a Safe Plan
A safe plan is just a set of steps you will take to keep yourself safe if you feel that you are experiencing strong suicidal thoughts. It should include contact numbers for the helplines or professionals who can help, along with family and friends you can call on for support. Carers Link can help you with this.
Remember
Remember taking your own life is never the answer. These feelings will not last forever; you are stuck in a moment in your life. Whilst you may feel you cannot get out of your situation or these feelings, there is always help out there.
It is important that you get the help and support you require to help you through this period, and with this support you will find ways to help improve your life.
There are telephone helplines with specially trained volunteers who will listen to you, understand what you are going through, and help you through the immediate crisis.
The Samaritans operate a service that is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the number is: 08457 909090
Breathing Space provides a Scottish helpline with advisors who provide information and advice. The hours are: Mon- Thurs, 6pm- 2am Fri, Sat, Sun, 6pm – 6am. Telephone: 0800 83 85 87
If you need support with your caring role remember Carers Link is here to help and support you even if it is just to let off some steam or someone to share your feelings with. Our free phone number is 0800 975 2131.
