Overview
Even with the best self-care and support, the emotional toll of caring for a child with additional needs can become overwhelming.
If you are feeling low, anxious, or burned out, you are not alone—and it is okay to ask for help.
If you feel you have reached crisis point there is support available.
Recognising the signs
Caring for someone can be incredibly rewarding. It also has significant challenges and difficult feelings. It is not always easy to spot when these pressures become too much. If you start noticing signs of strain, it is crucial not to simply “struggle on” and hope things improve on their own.
- Feeling tired, irritable or hopeless all the time
- Withdrawing from others
- Struggling to cope with daily tasks
Talking helps
Talking to someone can help you process your thoughts and feel less alone. Whether it is a friend or a professional, reaching out is a sign of strength.
Find a way that feels right for you. Maybe a face-to-face conversation, talking on the phone or even writing down how you feel. Practice what you want to say. You could do this in your head or make some notes. Phrases like “I’ve not been feeling like myself lately” might provide a starting point.
Mindline and Samaritans both offer emotional support and a listening ear.
Reading Well
Reading Well for mental health is a collection of books that can help you understand and cope with tough feelings or mental health problems. Health professionals have picked these books because they are helpful. You can borrow them from your local library, and some are also available as e-books or audiobooks.
Seeking professional help
If you are struggling with your mental health, it is okay to ask for help. Looking after your mental health is really important—not just for you, but also so you can care for your child or young person in the best way possible.
Somerset Talking Therapies have:
- Self-help guides
- Courses
- Webinars
- Links to other information and advice
These can help you to overcome common mental health problems. If you feel like you need some additional support with your mental health, you can make a self-referral to be supported by professionals or speak to your GP.
Open Mental Health are also here to help. They offer support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to make sure that people struggling with their mental health in Somerset can access the right support at the right time.