Uniting is inviting Western Sydney residents who care for family members and friends with mental health challenges to come together to share insights, advice and camaraderie.
The Uniting Family and Carer Mental Health Program is committed to recognising, supporting and strengthening the vital role that families and carers play in the mental health system.
As part of this commitment, Uniting is holding four free Connecting Carers Days in June including in Western Sydney, the Nepean-Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Northern Sydney.
The Western Sydney event will take place at West HQ in Rooty Hill on Wednesday 17 June, between 9.30am and 3pm.
The day is designed to increase awareness and recognition of mental health carers and to highlight the diverse and often hidden carer experience for people living in Western Sydney, said Head of Mental Health at Uniting Chantal Nagib.
“Caring for family members and friends can be immensely rewarding, but it’s important carers take time to care for themselves as well.
“Caring for someone with mental health challenges can be uniquely difficult and the people who provide this support may not always be recognised as carers. Sometimes they may not even recognise themselves as carers.
“Our Connecting Carers Days are for everyone with a mental health caring role. They offer time for carers to come together and explore the day-to-day realities, share practical strategies, and promote wellbeing through activities and resources.”
Sydney psychology student, Hartley Duggan, 26, has been a carer since he was 8 years old and says connecting with other carers makes a big difference.
“Caring for someone with a mental illness can be emotionally challenging and every day can be different. Taking time to look after my health and wellbeing is essential, both for my own sake but also so I can provide the best care for the people I support.
“Connecting with other people in my community who understand the day-to-day ups and downs is very important.”
The Connecting Carers Days are supported by Local Health District services as well as relevant community and carer support organisations, and will feature information stands, interactive sessions and networking opportunities.
Everyone who plays a caring role for someone with mental health challenges in Western Sydney is encouraged to register and attend.
Western Sydney Connecting Carers – Wednesday 17 June
West HQ (33 Railway St, Rooty Hill)
9.30am – 3pm
Register here
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