Further resources
Some more external resources are listed below. If you’ve found something helpful that we haven’t included, get in touch with us on support@longcovid.org.
Looking after yourself
It can feel like there is always a job to be done. Juggling care with other responsibilities, like work and family life, can become overwhelming. This can impact a person’s physical and mental health, so it is important to look after yourself. Your needs are just as important as your loved one’s.
Remembering to eat well and stay active, and finding ways to relax, could make a world of difference. What brings you joy? It could be seeing a friend who makes you belly laugh, spending time on a hobby that you love, or something as simple as losing yourself in a jigsaw. Whatever helps you to feel like yourself and keeps your spirits up.
While it is important to have a support network, carers find that they are not able to spend as much time with friends and family. Sometimes they feel that friends and family do not understand Long COVID or their caring responsibilities. Sadly, this can lead to loneliness and isolation.
If you are struggling with your mental health, then it may be helpful to access counselling. Your GP may be able to help you find the right support in your area, or you can find a counsellor on Counselling Directory. Also, some carer services offer counselling, so it may be helpful to find out what your local carer service offers.