1. Coping with Stress as a Carer Tips for care workers
Sarah Edwards October 2016
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication [communication] reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

2. Why is Care different? Care workers often experience;
High expectations from the client and their family
Insufficient time to do the job
Lack of support in the workplace
Feeling inadequately trained or experienced

3. How can we recognise stress?
Irritable
Tiredness
Headaches
Anxious
Overwhelmed
Tense muscles
Increased blood pressure
Tearful

4. What can you do? Eat well – try to stick to healthy choices
Sleep enough – don’t be tempted to ‘ ‘burn the candle at both ends’
Exercise – even small amounts will help
Talk about it – to supportive colleagues, friends and line manager
Avoid excessive use of alcohol – it will only create more problems
Consider ‘new’ techniques such as ‘mindfulness’

5. Further advice and information
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6. What if you still don’t feel any better?
Have you spoken to your manager? If not, then do so – they can’t help if they don’t know what is happening.
Consider seeing your GP if you are still struggling, it is not a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of.