Caring for someone – whether they are a partner, parent, child, friend, or neighbour –  can place a huge demand on your time, energy and emotions. Even when it feels important or necessary, it can also be draining. Over time, the constant pressure can take a real toll on your mental and physical wellbeing.

If you are feeling exhausted, low in energy, or emotionally stretched, you are not alone. Many carers experience high levels of stress – sometimes without realising how deeply it is affecting them. The stress might come from juggling practical tasks, worrying about the future, dealing with changes in your relationship with the person you care for, or from the simple fact that there is no break.

It is not selfish to acknowledge this – it is necessary.

Our Coping with Stress video and e-learning resources (Health & Wellbeing pages) are designed to help you recognise the signs of stress, reflect on how it may be affecting you, and explore practical steps to support your wellbeing. It is not about fixing everything overnight – it is about creating small moments of care for yourself, too.

Here are some simple and realistic strategies that might help you manage the impact of stress:

1. Carve out a moment for yourself each day

It can feel impossible to find time for yourself when someone else depends on you – but even 5 or 10 minutes can help. It could be a quiet cup of tea, a short walk, reading something unrelated to caring, or just sitting in silence. You do not need to be productive in that time – the aim is to pause.

This is not indulgent. It is a small way to acknowledge that you matter too.

2. Let go of guilt when taking a break

Many carers feel guilt when they take time away from the person they support – even for basic rest. But rest is not a luxury, it is what helps you stay well enough to keep going. Taking a break might mean asking someone to cover for a couple of hours, using a local respite service, or saying no to something non-essential.

You can explore our Taking a Break guide which includes practical guidance for arranging respite care.

3. Stay connected where you can

Caring can be isolating – especially if the responsibility falls mainly on you. Try to stay connected to at least one person you can be honest with. This might be a friend, a neighbour, or another carer.

The Carers UK’s forum Connect is a safe, anonymous place to connect with other people who understand what you are going through. You do not have to explain everything – they get it.

4. Move your body in a way that feels doable

Exercise does not need to be a full workout to make a difference. Even small amounts of movement – stretching in the morning, walking up and down the garden, or following a gentle online video – can ease tension and lift your mood.

If you are not sure where to start, visit the Health and Wellbeing pages of the Digital Resource. You will find realistic ways to support your body, even in limited time.

5. Know where to turn when it gets too much

There may be times when you feel close to breaking point. This is not a failure – it is a sign that you have been carrying too much for too long. Whether you need someone to listen, advice about local services, or time away from caring, support is available.

You can speak to:

• Your GP, about your health and mental wellbeing
• Your local carers’ centre or council for respite and practical help
• The Carers UK Helpline (0808 808 7777) or advice email (advice@carersuk.org) for confidential guidance

Stress is not a sign that you are not coping – it is a response to a difficult situation that has gone on too long without enough support.

You deserve time, space and recognition, just as much as the person you are caring for. The Digital Resource for Carers offers tools, learning and community to help you build in care for yourself – even when the situation is far from easy.