“So many of us carers don’t reach out until we’ve hit rock bottom. Maybe we feel embarrassed or wonder, ‘What can anyone really do to help me?’ But for me, Carer Gateway has made a huge difference.”
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program providing free services and support for unpaid carers, led by Holstep Health in Victoria. Carer Gateway recognises the vital role carers play in supporting the wellbeing of family members and friends living with illness, disability, or ageing. By supporting carers, it helps prevent burnout and ensures they can continue to provide care while maintaining their own health and wellbeing.
Marianne is one such carer who experienced the invaluable support offered by Carer Gateway. She cares for her husband, who is living with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). PSP is a rare, degenerative brain disorder that affects movement, balance, speech, and eye coordination, progressively leading to significant disability.
Finding the courage to reach out for support
Marianne had heard about Carer Gateway through her work as a nurse, but it wasn’t until she reached a crisis point that she realised she needed to take control. She had injured her neck, was sleep-deprived, and struggling with the daily pressures of caring.
“When I finally rang Carer Gateway, I was able to speak to someone who really understood my issues, needs and challenges.”
Marianne received a tailored support package and was also connected with a coach and a peer support group. The one-on-one coaching helped to focus on her own needs — like getting better sleep and finding time for exercise — while peer support helped her feel heard and less isolated.
“Sometimes you feel like nobody understands, but people do. It’s lovely to feel validated and receive kindness from people who get what you’re going through.”
Even through the most challenging aspects of her husband’s condition, Carer Gateway empowered Marianne to navigate each day with greater strength.
Whether you care for a family member or friend every day or just a few hours a week, you’re not alone. Carer Gateway offers free emotional, practical, and mental health support to help you. Call 1800 422 727 (Monday-Friday 8am-5pm) or visit our Carer Support page to find out more.
This story was produced in partnership with Fight Parkinson’s. Carer Gateway – Holstep Health was proud to support Fight Parkinson’s annual event A Walk in the Park to raise awareness and support for people living with Parkinson’s.
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