Caring for a heart patient

Every day, six thousand people take on a caring responsibility. Many, perhaps like you, don't even consider themselves to be carers, but think they are simply partners, family or friends doing what anyone in their situation would do: caring for someone they love.

Caring for yourself too

I am a carer, but I don't think of myself as one. I think that part of loving someone is looking after them. If the boot was on the other foot he'd do the same for me.

Being a carer for someone who has a heart condition can be very demanding - both physically and emotionally. Some carers will juggle their job at work with home and family life as well as looking after their partner or relative.

If you are a carer, whether your caring involves emotional support, taking on extra chores or caring for someone 24 hours a day, you need to have a life of your own and to take care of your own physical and mental wellbeing. This includes taking regular breaks and time out for yourself.

Carers UK is the charity that campaigns for the rights of carers. They know the importance of recognising yourself as a carer and suggest the following can be helpful:

• Tell your GP, because looking after your health is important too
• Tell Social Services, because they provide a range of services for carers
• Tell people at work, because you may have to take time off for hospital appointments
• Find out about and claim anything you may be entitled to, such as carers allowance
• Find your nearest carers groups and centres
• Look after yourself - take time to treat yourself
• Plan for the future

The more your role as a carer is recognised the better access you will have to support. We know that caring for a loved one can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be stressful.

Where can I find support?

I know now that you can still have a positive life - you just have to know where to go for support

Our booklet Caring for someone with a heart condition contains practical information, such as financial help you may be entitled to and the emotional aspects of being a carer and how to cope if things get difficult. It also includes details of organisations that are able to provide carers with support.

Our affiliated Heart Support Groups are one of the best places for both heart patients and their carers to get help and support. Set up by patients and carers, they do a tremendous job in bringing fun and friendship into peoples lives after the traumatic experience of a heart incident or diagnosis.

Joining our Online Community will give you an opportunity to share your experiences, stories, tips and ideas with other people like you.

Our Heart Helpline cardiac nurses and heart health advisors are here to provide you with information and support on anything heart related - 0300 330 3311.