Mental health is just as important as your physical health and that is why it’s not something that should be neglected. If you are suffering from an illness or if you can’t get out and about like you used to, then it can be detrimental for your mental health. You can find that you don’t want to do activities that you used to be interested in. You could withdraw from yourself and others around you and could end up having potentially harmful thoughts. This is where a home carer can come in.
They can ensure you aren’t alone
One of the biggest causes of mental health issues can derive from loneliness. This has been especially true during the pandemic, but can be a continuous problem. A survey by Age UK found that over 2 million people in England that are over the age of 75 live on their own. They also found that over a million people go over four weeks with no contact with someone they know such as a neighbor, friend, or family member. If you are lonely it can be hard to reach out.
This might be because of pride or just because you feel helpless. Your carer will be a friendly face that you don’t need to reach out to as they will always be there. Whether you need someone during the day or a live-in carer who is with you all the time, you can rest assured you are in safe hands at all times.
They can give you back your independence
One thing that can take a toll on mental health can be if you lose your independence. A carer can help encourage you to do things yourself at home while knowing you are under watchful supervision. By being able to do these things on your own it can help you feel more positive about yourself. This will therefore help your mental wellbeing. You will feel more like your old self, more capable, and have small daily challenges that when you complete will be a real mood booster.
They can help with brain training activities
Your carer can help to set you up with activities that can boost your mental health. This can include word searches, playing chess with you, sudoku and quizzes. These are all good for keeping you feeling positive and your brain active and healthy. It can also help with dementia and reduce your likelihood of developing it as well as potentially slowing symptoms. They can also play your favorite music and help with other activities that can keep your mind busy. It will also be a welcome distraction from any sad or negative thoughts you might be feeling.
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They can address your health concerns
One of the things that could impact your mental health could be if you are worried about your physical wellbeing. If you have recently been diagnosed with a condition then this could leave you feeling worried and anxious, with many questions. A carer has looked after many people and may know the answers to things you are fretting about. If they don’t, they will know the right contacts and be able to get the answers for you.
They can support your family
If your family is looking out for you and know that they are worried about you then it can cause you to feel guilty and impact the way you feel mentally. You might feel like a burden and this can be upsetting. By having a carer you know that your family won’t have to worry about you so much, which in turn can ease your own anxiety and feelings.
These are just a few ways that having a home carer can help with your mental health. If you are suffering mentally make sure you speak to someone and get the help that you deserve. If you are looking for care at home services, we are here to help. Find out more about what we do here.
If you are looking for care at home job, we have a number of vacancies which can be found here.