With the right support, you can care for your loved one when they need it most.¹ Support can come from many sources, for example from family, friends, religious organisations or carer support groups.

You should always speak openly about your caring duties with those involved in the treatment of your loved one. They will be able to guide you towards resources and carer support groups which can help you to manage the day-to-day needs of looking after a loved one.

Where can I get support?

There are many sources of support that you can access. You can ask your loved one's treatment team to help you find resources or search online for support. You may also be able to speak to local charities who support people in a caring role for somebody with a serious illness.

Family counseling for those providing care

A counselor can help you learn to develop coping strategies for the emotional demands of being a carer. They can help you through the difficult emotional periods and work through any stress, anger, and guilt that can come with being a carer. You can ask your loved one's treatment team about getting support or search online to find services available in your local area.

Carer support groups

Carer support groups offer an opportunity to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions, and compare notes with others in a similar situation. They are a safe place to vent your feelings to help maintain your mental wellbeing.¹

Charities

Many charities can offer support to people who are providing caring duties for their loved one. Different charities will be available depending on your local area and services. Your loved one's treatment team may also be able to recommend charities in your area.

Charities focus on promoting health and providing support for those affected by various conditions including those affecting the lungs. Many of them campaign for improvements in the level of care offered to people affected by chronic diseases and improving overall public awareness.

Charities are a great resource for promoting better understanding, as well as alleviating, treating and preventing disease. These charities can be useful for getting more information and guidance when providing the care of a loved one living with pulmonary fibrosis.

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Carer support group

Carer support groups allow carers to share their feelings and help them stay strong and committed.

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Key takeaways

Being a carer can be emotionally challenging, but also hugely rewarding

As well as looking after your loved one, you must also look after your own physical and mental wellbeing

Family, friends, carer support groups and charities can offer support to carers

Belkin A, Albright K, Swigris JJ, et al. A qualitative study of informal caregivers’ perspectives on the effects of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. BMJ Open Respir Res. 2014;1(1):e000007.