Talking to Others and Seeking Support

Talking to others and seeking support

Families and Carers
You're Not Alone

Looking after someone with kidney disease can be tough at times, but you’re not alone.

To give your best care, it’s important to also look after yourself. That might mean reaching out for help, whether it’s emotional support or taking a break from caring when you need it.

The Importance of Carer Support

Being a carer can feel overwhelming at times. It’s okay to need support for yourself.
The Carer’s Bill of Rights reminds you that you also have the right to:

Make your own choices
Take breaks
Do things you enjoy
Feel supported

You can find this list in our Living with Kidney Failure Handbook or through Carers Australia.

Taking Care of Yourself

To care for someone else, you need to care for yourself too. That might mean:

Asking for help from others
Taking time to rest
Using respite care
Seeking emotional or financial support when you need it

You are not expected to do it all alone, and you deserve support just as much as the person you’re caring for.

Support for Carers

There are lots of services around Australia that can support you as a carer:

Carers Australia

Offers resources and speaks up for carers in all states across the country

Beyond Blue

Has information and support if you’re feeling low, anxious, or overwhelmed.

Carer Gateway

A program that povides emotional and practical services for carers

Palliative Care Australia

Support for carers and people receiving palliative care

Department of Social Services

Lists government programs and carer support services

Financial Help

If you need help with money, you might be able to get payments through Centrelink. There’s also a helpful carer payment guide you can read to learn more.

Respite Care: Taking a Break

Respite care means someone else takes over care for a short time so you can rest. The types of support depend on the type of dialysis your loved one is doing:

Home haemodialysis:
A respite unit (hospital or satellite centre) may be available. Ask your dialysis team.

Peritoneal dialysis:
Some people can have a short stay in a nursing home. Your health team or social worker can explain what’s available in your state.