“It has been a grieving process. The son I knew was lost in his mental illness and I couldn’t reach him. I kept hoping one day to wake up like it never happened. I wanted my old Jamal back.”
Denise took on the role of Jamal’s carer which she likens to the experience of looking after a
child again however you’re in your mid-fifties and your child is a grown adult. She felt she couldn’t leave Jamal alone in the house. And worried terribly about when he went out in case he found himself in a situation he couldn’t cope with.
Her caring role put a huge strain on Denise physically and emotionally. She didn’t know where to turn for information about his condition and was consumed by writing letters, attending appointments, learning about medications and making sure he was looking after himself. She was also dealing with her feelings of loss of the son she knew.
One of the most helpful things for Denise has been support from Carers First and fellow carers.
“Accessing support for myself early helped me manage better in my caring role. My friends from the group were a lifeline and a great comfort to me as I went through such difficult times with Jamal. They were always there at the end of the phone or to meet for a coffee when I needed it.”
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.