How To Create a Support Network

As a caregiver, do you sometimes feel alone? Isolated?

You want to talk to someone, but don’t know where to start?

What you might need is what we call a support network. A support network is a group of people, like family or friends, who you can contact for help and support. These are the people who are close to you, and know and care about you- especially your wellbeing. Just by hanging out and talking about your day, sharing your thoughts and feelings can help you.

Here are some ways you can grow your support network.

Be Open to Sharing

No one will know exactly what you’re going through unless you talk about it. So don’t be afraid to open up and share your experiences. It helps to build trust and respect and opens up the opportunity to make deeper, more meaningful connections.

Ask for help.

This is probably the hardest step. Admitting vulnerability and asking for help. It’s understandable, you’re the caregiver. But caregivers also need what all humans do – love and support.

Don’t feel ashamed to ask for help. There is always someone who would love to help you in any way they can.

Reach out to your family and friends.

Your family and friends care about your health and wellbeing and would want to help you in any way they can so you have less on your plate. For example, if you are pressed for time and can’t clean your house, ask a family member to help.

If you really want to exercise but don’t have the motivation, ask a friend to keep you company.

This helps to lessen your daily stress, so you don’t get overwhelmed by the trivial things.

Try Caregiver Support Groups

…for emotional support.

At a caregiver support group, you can share your experiences with other caregivers, listen to their experiences, and give and receive support to and from each other.

Try meeting new people.

It’s tough to make time for yourself, let alone to make a new social connection. But this can be helpful and rewarding, especially if you start a conversation with other caregivers. We are everywhere. Knowing that you’re not going through this alone helps a lot. There are people who care for you and want to help you.

You are not alone.

We’ve included a list of resources of Caregiver Support Groups in our description box.

Also, be sure to check out our other caregiver support and resource videos!