Building your support team for carers

Connecting with the right people and having the support of those people around you can make a big difference Your support team might consist of one or two people or several people, depending on your needs.

When gathering your village, it can be useful to reflect on past challenging situations and consider what and how it was helpful then. You can also seek insights from others by asking questions like “How did you go about finding support?” or “What resources were particularly valuable?”

We’ve put together a list of several types of support for you to consider:

• Information and Guidance Support

  This type of support involves providing advice, guidance, or information to help someone make informed decisions or solve problems. Imagine having that person or people who are always there to share advice, tips, and information to help make informed decisions and solve problems. You can find this kind of support from healthcare professionals, such as MS nurses, trusted websites, or other people who know someone or are themselves living with MS.

• Check-in and Feedback Support

  When life gets uncertain, or things change, think of that one person you can lean on. They're the friend who appraises the situation and helps you sort out your feelings, thoughts, and situations. They'll give you feedback and reassure you, like your go-to buddy or even a health care professional such as a nurse or counsellor.

• Safety and Validation Support

  You know that friend who lets you be yourself, no matter what? They don't judge; they just listen and understand. That's the kind of support that helps you feel safe, even during tough times. Just being present with someone can help combat loneliness and foster a sense of safety and calm.

• Optimism, Hope, and Self-esteem Support

  We all need that friend who boosts our confidence, reminds us of our worth, and brings hope when we're feeling low. They're like your personal cheerleader!

• Lifestyle Coach

  This support can come from many different places, people or groups, who help you stay on track and hold you accountable for your overall wellbeing. This might be a trainer at the gym, your yoga teacher or a friend you exercise with.

• Emotional and Mental Health Support

  Everyone needs someone to talk to, especially when things get tough. This friend provides comfort, empathy, and a listening ear. If you find yourself struggling or needing to process what you’re going through, seeking guidance from a mental health professional is a good idea.

• Practical and Instrumental Support

  Your practical friend or person is the one who's always ready to lend a hand—cooking meals, helping with tasks, or even offering a little financial support.

• Community Connections Support

  Valuable support also includes people in your life who can connect you with a broader network and community, enhancing the quality of your relationships. This may encompass family members, friends, peer groups, healthcare professionals, or a combination of these. They help you expand your circle of people and support.

  So, think of these different types of support like having a village of people who've got your back in various ways! 🤗

  Now that you have a better understanding of the types of support you might need, consider the following:

  • Identify your specific needs
  • Recognise your existing networks
  • Reflect on how your team is working for you
  • Think about how your support needs might change overtime.

  Next, do a self-scan on the types of support mentioned above:

  • Do I need this type of support right now?
  • Is there someone who already provides that support?
  • Is there someone who can assist with a type of support that I haven’t considered yet?

  It can be helpful to let people know that you value the specific type of support they provide and validate them for their role Remember that sometimes, people don’t offer their support because they assume you have everything under control or they are unsure how to help. By asking for and accepting small offers of support now, it will be easier to accept more support in the future.

  By building your support team you can help look after yourself as well as the person you’re supporting. Your network will be your strength in navigating the journey ahead.