To mark National Stress Awareness Day, one mum shares how Crossroads Care’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Programme has helped her find calm amid the pressures of caring.
‘When you’re a carer, time to yourself is limited,’ says Janet. ‘I’m a single mum, working full-time, and caring for my youngest son Edward, 17, who has autism and learning difficulties, as well as my eldest son, who’s a young carer but currently away at university. Until recently, I was also looking after my mum who had Alzheimer’s. She sadly passed away in 2023 and I miss her so much.
‘Crossroads has been supporting our family for over eight years, offering advice as well as practical and emotional support. The charity means so much to us that as a tribute to Mum, we collected donations for Crossroads when we laid her to rest.
‘As well as being absolutely adorable, the team are professional, helpful and knowledgeable. I can turn to them for advice on everything — from specialist cooking classes for Edward to guidance as he starts looking for a job that will give him purpose and the prospect of earning some money.
‘One of the most valuable things for me has been the charity’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Programme. When I was coming to terms with losing my mum, having a massage or reiki session helped me to zone out and properly relax.
‘Jess, the charity’s holistic therapist, is kind and calming. I can talk to her about anything. As a single parent, it is difficult to justify spending money on my own wellbeing, but getting this support has helped me cope with the pressures of caring including helping Edward to become more independent despite his struggles with everyday tasks such as handling money and using public transport.
‘The Caring Café — for carers and those they support living with dementia — was critical in offering support when I was looking after my mum. It gave us a calm space to go together, meet other carers and share experiences.
‘Even now, Crossroads continues to support us. Edward has been attending the Saturday Club for children with special educational needs since he was nine. It’s boosted his confidence, given him the opportunity to make local friends and do activities like street dance and arts and crafts. Now he’s older, he is keen to volunteer there to give back.
‘I feel so fortunate to have such great support from Crossroads.’
