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Young carers are children and young people, aged 18 and under, who provide, or intend to provide, care for another individual.
This would be on an ongoing basis and may include physical, practical and/or emotional support. This may be due to a disability, long-term illness, mental ill-health or drug or alcohol dependency. It would also include supporting siblings if the parent or parents can't do the parenting role themselves.
Keeping well
Keeping well
A caring role, if unsupported, can have a huge impact on your own health, both physically and mentally. For example you:
may suffer from lack of sleep because you are up during the night
may have a bad back from lifting and carrying
might not be eating properly or getting out and about enough
might find it difficult to concentrate and focus on things, particularly in school
may find stress and anxiety can become an issue for you
Your doctor and school nurse or doctor are all available to help support you with your own health needs.
There is a Carers Point and Health Point in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary which can provide you with lots of help and advice, as well as links to other services for support.
Some young carers would benefit from more information about the health needs of the person they care for. Health professionals can help keep you informed.
Young carers also note lots of positive consequences from taking on a caring role, like helping you grow in confidence and developing important life skills.
If you think you are a young carer, please talk to your Guidance Teacher.
Staff in school are there to help support you in your caring role and to help make sure you can fulfil your potential. They can also help to identify other sources of support which may benefit you like the Carers Support Service
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