When someone close to you changes because of mental health challenges you may feel a mix of emotions, including anger, loss and sadness. Caring for a loved one with mental health challenges can be an incredibly fulfilling but also demanding role. As a mental health carer, you may face unique emotional and psychological pressures that can impact your well-being. This is where counselling becomes an essential resource.
We provide free and confidential counselling to people aged seven or over in WA who are supporting a family member or a friend living with mental health challenges, including:
· Individual counselling appointments for adults and young people aged 7 upwards
· Telehealth counselling for people in regional and remote WA (aged 15 upwards)
· In-school counselling for students aged 7-17
Reasons why counselling is so important
Emotional Support
Counselling provides a safe and confidential space for mental health carers to express their feelings. Whether you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, frustration, or sadness, having a professional to talk to can help you process these emotions. This support is crucial in preventing feelings of isolation and burnout.
Stress Management
The responsibilities of caring for someone with mental health challenges can be overwhelming. Counsellors can teach coping strategies and stress management techniques, helping you to maintain a healthier balance between caregiving and personal life. This can include mindfulness practices, relaxation exercises, and time management skills.
Understanding Mental Health
Counselling can help carers gain a deeper understanding of the mental health conditions their loved ones are facing. This knowledge can improve empathy, patience, and the ability to provide effective support. It also helps in setting realistic expectations and understanding the limitations of your role as a mental health carer.
Improving Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in caregiving. Counselling can help you develop better communication skills, which are essential in managing difficult conversations and expressing needs and boundaries. This can enhance the relationship between you and the person you care for, fostering a more supportive and understanding environment.
Developing Resilience
Counsellors can assist carers in building resilience—the ability to bounce back from difficult situations. Resilience is crucial in maintaining long-term caregiving without compromising your own mental health. Counselling sessions can focus on building this inner strength through various therapeutic approaches.
Personal Growth
Counselling provides an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. Carers can explore their own goals, dreams, and needs, ensuring that they do not lose their sense of self while caring for others. This balance is vital for a fulfilling and sustainable caregiving experience.
Crisis Management
During times of crisis, such as a mental health emergency with the person you care for, having a counsellor can provide immediate and practical support. They can guide you through crisis intervention techniques and provide emotional support during these challenging times.
Building a Support Network
We have available a vast array of support groups, respite care services, and educational resources. Building a broader support network can reduce the sense of isolation and provide additional practical and emotional assistance.
Get Support from HelpingMinds®
Would you like to know more about free and confidential mental health carer services and how we can support you? Please feel free to contact HelpingMinds® via the form below or on (08) 9427 7100. For one of our team to get back to you, we will require your email address and/or phone number. Please know all information provided will be treated completely confidential and in line with our privacy policy.
Client Feedback
I have been able to cope better with my caring duties because of the support of HelpingMinds Broome staff/support workers who go above and beyond their roles. The variety of workshops and gatherings has enabled me to connect with other carers, to share our stories and the craft activities have empowered me to believe in myself. Life has been worth living and I have had something to look forward to, people actually do care about me.”
I needed someone objective to talk to about the situation I was in. `{`My counsellor`}` provided that. She listened and provided suggestions as to how I could manage different situations. Unlike others I have seen in the past who delved into my past she addressed my current situation and provided practical suggestions and strategies which helped me enormously. She was easy to chat to and at every session inquired as to my wellbeing. She didn’t rush me and always made me feel at ease. The fact that the service is free also makes a huge difference. One less worry when so much expenditure is being spent on the person I care for.
I 100% felt safe and supported by my worker, I felt confident to fully speak my truth. HelpingMinds offered me outcomes without telling me what to, she let me ponder on her advice and come to my own conclusions. After concluding my last session, I truly felt with her help that I was leaving stronger and with more confidence to better manage my life circumstances. Thank you HelpingMinds
Everyone has been so lovely and wonderful to me. It makes such a difference having someone really listen to you and validate what you are going through.
