Support for Cancer Carers

A cancer diagnosis is a devastating experience for patients but it is also extremely stressful for the people who later become the primary source of support and care – usually families and loved ones.  Carers' wellbeing may have an impact on the wellbeing of the people they are supporting. 

Tens of thousands of Australians are diagnosed with cancer every year and this has a flow-on effect through the entire community.  Taking care of a loved one diagnosed with cancer is extremely demanding and can place a heavy burden on the emotional and physical resources of partners, family members and friends.

Life Force recognises that caring for the physical and emotional needs of partners, family members and close friends is an essential part of caring for cancer patients.  Attending a support group can help to reduce the distress of carers and enable them to give the best possible support to someone diagnosed with cancer.

Research conducted by Sydney University and the Cancer Council NSW revealed that depression and anxiety are widespread among carers, at an even higher level than that experienced by cancer patients.   The impact this has on the quality of life of carers can then also affect the quality of care they are able to provide to a loved one with cancer.  It is vital for carers to find support for themselves to help them through these difficult times. 

Other research findings have shown that a far greater proportion of female carers report higher levels of anxiety and depression and have more unmet needs than men who are caring for a person with cancer. However, there is also evidence that men suffer in silence and don’t seek help.

By attending a carers’ support group both men and women can find non-judgmental assistance from other people going through a similar experience.  Phone to find out more about the carers’ group provided by Life Force.

Caro: 02 9564 3289 | 0425 296 698