Caring for a loved one with a mental illness is a demanding, often under-recognized role. Many unpaid carers find themselves thrust into complex scenarios, navigating mental health crises, advocating for proper support, balancing their own wellbeing, and, too often, facing these challenges in isolation. While every carer’s journey is unique, a core set of resources can make a dramatic difference between feeling overwhelmed and finding sustainable ways to cope and thrive.
This article and video unpacks those essential resources through the lens of an experienced carer activist and carer, offering both a practical hierarchy of importance and actionable insights. Using a “tier list” as a framework, we’ll explore which resources are most urgent and why, how they fit together, and tips for navigating the labyrinth of mental health care.
To watch which resources are essential for mental health carers, watch the video below.
The Tiered Approach: Prioritizing Carers’ Needs
Resources for mental health carers can be overwhelming in scope from legal advice and crisis hotlines to financial support and practical training. To create clarity, resources are placed into four tiers:
S Tier (Essential): Survival-level supports; absolutely critical for continued caring and crisis management.
A Tier (Sustaining): Highly valuable resources that keep your caring role tenable in the long run.
B Tier (Enhancing): Important support systems that reduce daily strain and improve quality of life but aren’t as immediately pressing.
C Tier (Auxiliary): Long-term stability and planning; often overlooked but still necessary.
Let’s break down what falls into each tier and how you can access and leverage these resources effectively.
Carers: Unsung Heroes, Essential Supports
Mental health carers are the invisible backbone of the support system—shouldering enormous responsibility, often without recognition or adequate support. By focusing on these critical resources and prioritizing self-care as well as advocacy, carers can find greater resilience, confidence, and sustainability.
Remember, you are not alone. Whether you access support online, through local groups, or formal agencies, reach out, ask questions, and don’t accept “no” as the final answer when it comes to your rights and wellbeing. With the right resources and support system, caring for a loved one with mental illness can be not just a challenge to survive—but a journey where you both can thrive.
On Thursday 20th November, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the Memory, Wellbeing and Brain Health event hosted at Broadfield Community Centre in Crawley. Organised by Carers Support West Sussex, the event formed part of Carers Rights Day, bringing together carers, professionals, community teams, and people living with dementia for a day of learning, connection, and support.
Although I couldn’t stay for the full programme due to travelling to another Carers Rights Day engagement later that afternoon, I was grateful to take part in the early sessions and witness the energy and compassion that shaped the whole day.
On this year’s Carers Rights Day 2025 (Thursday 20 November), the theme is “Know your rights, use your rights.”
If you care for someone, whether it’s a partner, parent, child or friend; you may be missing out on vital support simply because you didn’t realise you have rights as a carer.
In my new video I walk you through what those rights actually are, and how you can use them in practice.
In this video you’ll discover:
Why recognising yourself as a carer matters
Key rights every carer should know (from assessments to flexible working)
How to make use of those rights in your daily life
Where to go for help, guidance and support
Click the link, take two minutes, and empower yourself today.
Caring for a loved one is a role that often goes unseen and undervalued. In this interview, Matthew McKenzie speaks with Elsie, a 73-year-old carer and activist, about her journey as an unpaid carer, the challenges she’s faced, and her mission to support others walking the same path.
Standing Strong for Carers’ Rights
Elsie refuses to be silenced. Though at times labeled as a “persistent, unreasonable complainer,” she sees her persistence as a duty to her loved ones and to other carers. For her, raising concerns is about advocating for better care and systemic improvements.
Her advice to carers is simple but powerful:
Trust your instincts.
Don’t give up until your loved one gets the right care.
Learn about carers’ rights and stay engaged in decisions.
Finding Strength in Words
In a deeply moving moment, Elsie shared a poem she had written for the Book of Remembrance at Honor Oak Crematorium, in memory of her son. Her words reflect not only grief but also strength, love, and the motivation to keep advocating for change.
You’ll always be our hero. Although you’re gone, we’re not apart. Our love for you keeps going, It stays deep within our hearts.
Football, food and fishing Were what it was all about. Blue is the color, Come on, you lions, to shout.
Understanding Schizophrenia: Breaking the Silence and Challenging Stigma
Schizophrenia remains one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often shrouded in myths, misconceptions, and stigma. As National Schizophrenia Awareness Day took place on July 25th, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the realities of living with schizophrenia, the challenges faced by those affected, and the crucial role of unpaid carers.
This article taken as a transcript from my video delves into the importance of awareness, the lived experiences of individuals and their families, and the collective responsibility to foster understanding and support.
The Significance of National Schizophrenia Awareness Day
National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, observed annually on July 25th in the UK, is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness, challenging stigma, and building understanding around schizophrenia which is a condition that affects approximately one in every 100 people in the UK. The day is spearheaded by organizations such as Rethink Mental Illness, Change Mental Health in Scotland, Adared Recovery in Wales, and Mindwise in Northern Ireland. Together, these organizations form Mental Health UK, a collaborative effort to provide vital support and advocacy for those living with schizophrenia and their carers.
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a complex mental health condition characterized by a range of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. However, it is essential to recognize that schizophrenia is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. The experience of schizophrenia exists on a spectrum, with each individual’s journey being unique. For some, symptoms may be more pronounced, while others may experience periods of stability and recovery.
Common Symptoms
Hallucinations: Sensing things that are not present, such as hearing voices.
Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs that are not based in reality.
Disorganized Thinking: Difficulty organizing thoughts, leading to incoherent speech or trouble concentrating.
Despite these clinical descriptions, it is crucial to remember that schizophrenia is, above all, a human experience. The condition affects not only the individual but also their families, friends, and communities.
The Human Experience: Beyond the Diagnosis
Too often, the narrative around schizophrenia is dominated by fear, misunderstanding, and negative stereotypes. Individuals living with schizophrenia frequently face stigma, isolation, and discrimination not only just from society at large, but sometimes even within the mental health system and healthcare services themselves. This stigma can be even more pronounced for those from minority groups, compounding the challenges they already face.
The Impact of Stigma
Stigma surrounding schizophrenia can have far-reaching consequences. It can:
Discourage individuals from seeking help or treatment.
Lead to social isolation and exclusion.
Affect employment and educational opportunities.
Create barriers to accessing quality healthcare.
Challenging these misconceptions requires a collective effort to educate the public, promote empathy, and highlight the real stories of those living with schizophrenia.
The Unseen Heroes: Unpaid Carers
While much attention is rightly given to those living with schizophrenia, there is another group whose contributions often go unrecognized—unpaid carers. These are the family members, close friends, partners, and loved ones who provide daily support to individuals with schizophrenia. Their role is both vital and demanding, yet their voices are frequently underrepresented in policy discussions, service planning, and awareness campaigns.
Who Are Unpaid Carers?
Unpaid carers are individuals who, without formal training or compensation, dedicate their time and energy to supporting someone with schizophrenia. This support can take many forms, including:
Emotional Support: Listening, comforting, and advocating for their loved one.
Crisis Management: Staying up late, managing emergencies, and ensuring safety.
Practical Assistance: Helping with daily tasks, medication management, and appointments.
Financial Support: Bearing the costs associated with care, often at personal expense.
The burdens carried by unpaid carers are not just emotional but can also be financial and physical. Despite their critical role, they often receive limited support and recognition.
The Lived Experience of Carers
Many carers, like the speaker’s own mother, navigate the complexities of supporting a loved one with schizophrenia with little guidance or acknowledgment. They become advocates, crisis managers, and emotional anchors, often at the expense of their own well-being. The lack of formal training and support can leave carers feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
Building a Better Future: What Needs to Change
Raising awareness about schizophrenia is not just about increasing knowledge—it is about fostering a culture of care, action, and inclusion. To truly support those affected by schizophrenia and their carers, several key areas need attention.
1. Improving Services and Support
Mental health services must be designed to listen to and address the needs of both individuals with schizophrenia and their carers. This includes:
Accessible Support: Ensuring timely access to mental health services and crisis intervention.
Carer Involvement: Actively involving carers in care planning and decision-making.
Tailored Resources: Providing information, training, and respite for carers.
2. Promoting Inclusive Research
Research into schizophrenia should not only focus on clinical outcomes but also incorporate the experiences of unpaid carers. Their insights are invaluable in understanding the full impact of the condition and in developing effective interventions.
Participatory Research: Engaging carers as partners in research projects.
Holistic Approaches: Studying the social, emotional, and economic effects of schizophrenia on families.
3. Educating the Public
Public education is essential to dispel myths and challenge outdated beliefs about schizophrenia. Awareness campaigns should:
Highlight Lived Experiences: Share real stories from individuals and carers.
Combat Stereotypes: Address common misconceptions and promote accurate information.
Encourage Empathy: Foster understanding and reduce fear and prejudice.
4. Policy and Advocacy
Policymakers must recognize the contributions of unpaid carers and ensure their needs are reflected in mental health policies. This includes:
Carer Rights: Protecting the rights of carers in the workplace and healthcare settings.
Financial Support: Providing financial assistance and benefits to carers.
Representation: Including carers in policy development and service evaluation.
The Power of Awareness: Moving Beyond Knowledge
Awareness is not a passive state, it is an active commitment to care, act, and include others. National Schizophrenia Awareness Day serves as a reminder that understanding schizophrenia goes beyond statistics and symptoms. It is about recognizing the humanity of those affected, valuing the contributions of carers, and working together to create a more inclusive and supportive society.
Taking Action: How You Can Help
Everyone has a role to play in challenging stigma and supporting those affected by schizophrenia. Here are some ways you can make a difference:
Educate Yourself: Learn about schizophrenia from reputable sources and listen to the experiences of those affected.
Challenge Stigma: Speak out against stereotypes and discrimination when you encounter them.
Support Carers: Offer practical help, emotional support, or simply a listening ear to carers in your community.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and organizations that promote mental health awareness and carer rights.
Share Awareness: Use your voice and platforms to spread awareness, especially on days like National Schizophrenia Awareness Day.
Personal Reflections: The Importance of Inclusion
As highlighted in the video, awareness is not just about knowing—it is about caring, acting, and including others. The journey of living with schizophrenia, or supporting someone who does, is often marked by resilience, compassion, and hope. By listening to and amplifying the voices of those with lived experience, we can build a more understanding and supportive world.
The Role of Community
Community support is vital for both individuals with schizophrenia and their carers. Whether through peer support groups, advocacy organizations, or informal networks, connection and solidarity can make a significant difference. Communities that prioritize mental health and inclusion are better equipped to challenge stigma and provide meaningful support.
The Value of Recognition
Recognition of the efforts and sacrifices made by unpaid carers is long overdue. Their dedication sustains individuals and families, often in the face of immense challenges. By acknowledging and supporting carers, we not only improve their well-being but also enhance the quality of care for those living with schizophrenia.
Looking Ahead: Hope and Progress
While the challenges associated with schizophrenia are significant, there is reason for hope. Advances in research, growing public awareness, and the tireless efforts of advocacy organizations are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive future. By working together—individuals, families, communities, and policymakers—we can break the silence, challenge stigma, and ensure that no one faces schizophrenia alone.
A Call to Action
As National Schizophrenia Awareness Day approaches, let us commit to more than just awareness. Let us strive for understanding, compassion, and action. Whether you are living with schizophrenia, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking to learn more, your voice and efforts matter. Together, we can build a society that values every individual and supports every carer.
Conclusion
Schizophrenia is a complex and deeply human experience, affecting not only those diagnosed but also their families, friends, and communities. National Schizophrenia Awareness Day is a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness, inclusion, and action. By challenging stigma, supporting unpaid carers, and advocating for better services and understanding, we can create a world where everyone affected by schizophrenia is valued, supported, and empowered.
Let us use this day and every day to listen, learn, and act. Share stories, challenge myths, and offer support. In doing so, we honor the resilience of those living with schizophrenia and the dedication of their carers, building a more compassionate and inclusive future for all.
Alcohol Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of alcohol on individuals, families, workplaces, and society at large. In 2025, the event will run from the 7th to the 13th of July, spearheaded by the charity Alcohol Change UK.
To watch the video version of my blog, see below. The blog is a transcript of the video.
This year’s theme, “Alcohol and Work,” brings a crucial focus to how alcohol consumption affects not just personal health, but also professional performance, workplace relationships, and overall well-being.
The Broader Impact of Alcohol
Alcohol is often viewed through the lens of personal choice and individual health. However, its effects ripple far beyond the person consuming it. The consequences of harmful drinking habits can be seen in diminished work performance, strained relationships, compromised safety, and a decline in mental health. Behind every statistic lies a human story on one that often includes addiction, isolation, and the silent struggles of those who care for someone affected by alcohol dependency.
Alcohol and the Workplace: A Hidden Challenge
The Unseen Effects on Performance and Safety
Alcohol’s impact on the workplace is multifaceted. It can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even safety risks, especially in roles that require high levels of attention and responsibility. The pressure to perform, long working hours, and high-stress environments can sometimes drive individuals to use alcohol as a coping mechanism. This, in turn, can create a cycle where alcohol use further impairs work performance, leading to more stress and potentially more drinking.
The Human Stories Behind the Statistics
It’s easy to overlook the personal narratives behind the numbers. In the UK, approximately one in four people drink in ways that could be harmful to their health. For some, this escalates into dependency, isolation, and crisis. The journey into alcohol dependency is rarely straightforward or visible. It can be masked by a smile, hidden behind long hours at the office, or dismissed with a casual “I’m fine.” The reality is often much more complex and painful.
The Ripple Effect: Unpaid Carers and Their Silent Struggles
The Burden on Unpaid Carers
One of the most overlooked aspects of alcohol-related harm is its impact on unpaid carers. These are the partners, parents, siblings, friends, and even colleagues who quietly support someone struggling with alcohol dependency. Unpaid carers often juggle their own work and family responsibilities while shouldering the emotional and practical burdens of caring for someone else.
The challenges faced by unpaid carers are immense. Many carry this burden alone, with little support or recognition. They may sacrifice sleep, income, and their own mental health in the process. The emotional strain can be overwhelming, and the lack of support can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness.
The Need for Recognition and Support
It’s time to shine a light on the pressure, pain, and silence that unpaid carers endure. Their contributions are invaluable, yet they often go unnoticed. Recognizing their struggles and providing them with the support they need is essential, not just for their well-being, but for the well-being of those they care for.
Breaking the Silence: The Power of Conversation
Starting the Conversation
One of the most effective ways to address alcohol-related harm is to start a conversation. Breaking the stigma surrounding alcohol dependency begins with open, honest dialogue. If you’re concerned about someone’s drinking habits, reaching out and expressing your concern can be a powerful first step. Sometimes, simply asking, “How are you doing?” can make a world of difference.
Sharing Resources and Support
In addition to conversation, sharing resources is crucial. Organizations like Alcohol Change UK provide valuable information, helplines, and support services for those affected by alcohol dependency. Sharing these resources, whether it’s a helpful video, a website, or a helpline number which can offer much-needed support to someone in need.
Supporting Unpaid Carers
For those who focus on supporting unpaid carers, it’s important to acknowledge their unique challenges. Offering a listening ear, practical assistance, or simply checking in can provide much-needed relief. Carers often feel invisible, so small gestures of support can have a significant impact.
Raising Awareness: Everyone Has a Role
Online, at Work, and in the Community
Raising awareness about the harms of alcohol and the support available is a collective responsibility. Whether it’s through online campaigns, workplace initiatives, or community events, every effort counts. The more we talk about these issues, the less people will suffer in silence.
Building a Culture of Care
Ultimately, the goal is to foster a culture of care, one where no one has to face addiction or the challenges of caring for someone with addiction alone. By working together, we can reduce the harm caused by alcohol, support one another, and create a more compassionate society.
Practical Steps for Getting Involved
1. Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding the facts about alcohol and its effects is the first step. Visit reputable sources like Alcohol Change UK to learn more about the risks associated with alcohol consumption, the signs of dependency, and the support available.
2. Start Conversations
Don’t be afraid to talk about alcohol and its impact. Whether it’s with friends, family, or colleagues, open dialogue can help break down stigma and encourage those struggling to seek help.
3. Share Resources
Distribute information about support services, helplines, and educational materials. The more accessible these resources are, the more likely people are to use them.
4. Support Unpaid Carers
If you know someone who is caring for a person with alcohol dependency, offer your support. This could be as simple as checking in regularly, offering to help with practical tasks, or encouraging them to seek support for themselves.
5. Advocate for Change
Encourage your workplace or community to participate in Alcohol Awareness Week. Organize events, share information, and promote policies that support those affected by alcohol-related harm.
The Importance of Compassion and Understanding
Recognizing the Human Element
Behind every case of alcohol dependency is a person with a unique story. Compassion and understanding are essential in supporting those affected. Avoid judgment and focus on offering support and encouragement.
The Role of Empathy in Recovery
Empathy can be a powerful tool in helping someone change their relationship with alcohol. Listening without judgment, offering encouragement, and being patient can make a significant difference in someone’s journey to recovery.
The Role of Workplaces in Addressing Alcohol-Related Harm
Creating Supportive Environments
Workplaces have a unique opportunity to support employees affected by alcohol-related harm. This can include providing access to counseling services, promoting work-life balance, and fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help.
Implementing Policies and Training
Employers can implement policies that address alcohol use in the workplace, provide training for managers on how to support employees, and ensure that support services are readily available.
Encouraging Peer Support
Peer support programs can be effective in helping employees feel less isolated and more supported. Encouraging open dialogue and creating safe spaces for discussion can help break down barriers to seeking help.
The Ongoing Challenge: Reducing Stigma
video from Alcohol Change UK
Why Stigma Persists
Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to seeking help for alcohol dependency. Many people fear judgment or discrimination, which can prevent them from reaching out for support.
How to Combat Stigma
Education and awareness are key to reducing stigma. By sharing stories, promoting understanding, and challenging misconceptions, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by alcohol-related harm.
Looking Ahead: Building a Supportive Future
The Importance of Continued Awareness
Alcohol Awareness Week is an important opportunity to shine a light on the challenges associated with alcohol use. However, the work doesn’t end when the week is over. Continued awareness, education, and support are essential in creating lasting change.
Working Together for Change
Change is possible when we work together. By supporting one another, raising awareness, and advocating for better support systems, we can reduce the harm caused by alcohol and build a more compassionate society.
Resources for Support
Alcohol Change UK: alcoholchange.org.uk – A leading charity providing information, support, and resources for those affected by alcohol-related harm.
Helplines and Support Services: Many organizations offer confidential helplines and support services for individuals and carers.
Workplace Support: Check with your employer about available support services, employee assistance programs, and mental health resources.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Alcohol Awareness Week 2025 is a vital opportunity to reflect on the impact of alcohol in our lives, workplaces, and communities. By starting conversations, sharing resources, supporting unpaid carers, and raising awareness, we can make a real difference. Let’s work together to understand the harm that alcohol can cause, support one another, and build a culture of care, because no one should have to face addiction or care for someone with addiction alone.
Let’s make this Alcohol Awareness Week a turning point for greater understanding, compassion, and support.
Understanding the Hidden Struggles of Ethnic Minority Carers Caring for a loved one with mental illness can come with challenges, but for many ethnic minority carers, the journey is made more challenging by cultural stigma, language barriers, and a deep-rooted mistrust of formal health systems.
These carers often carry immense responsibility behind closed doors, with little recognition or support. Despite their dedication, many avoid reaching out to mental health services—not because they don’t care, but because past experiences have taught them to be cautious, even fearful.
What Is Institutional Distrust and Why Does It Matter? Institutional distrust refers to the lack of confidence in systems like healthcare, social care, or government services. For ethnic minority carers, this distrust is often grounded in real experiences of discrimination, cultural insensitivity, or the fear of losing control over a loved one’s care.
When services fail to understand or respect a carer’s background, the result is silence and isolation leaving carers to cope alone, without the help they may desperately need.
A Short Video Giving Voice to Unheard Stories To shed light on this important issue, I’ve created a short video presentation: “Institutional Distrust: Why Many Ethnic Carers Avoid Formal Services”
This video draws on the voices and lived experiences of unpaid carers, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds. It explores the emotional weight they carry, the cultural barriers they navigate, and the urgent need for services to become more inclusive, respectful, and culturally aware.
Why Sharing These Stories Matters If we truly want to support carers from all backgrounds, we must first listen and really listen to what they’re telling us. By naming institutional distrust and understanding its roots, we can begin to rebuild trust and create spaces where carers feel safe to seek help.
Please watch and share the video, and let’s continue the conversation about what real support looks like for ethnic minority carers in mental health.
On Tuesday, 10th June 2025, the Dominion Centre in Southall hosted a vibrant and deeply informative Carers Week Celebration.
Organised by the Ealing Carers Partnership and supported by various local organisations, the event honoured unpaid carers with a day of connection, education, and appreciation.
Carers Week 2025: Caring About Equality
This year’s theme, Caring About Equality, highlighted the challenges faced by unpaid carers, particularly those from marginalised communities and called for fair access to services, recognition, and support.
The event was a powerful reminder that equality means meeting people where they are and valuing every carer’s contribution.
Help raise awareness for unpaid mental health carers during Carers Week 2025. Learn how to support and recognize their vital, often unseen role in society. To watch the video of this blog, click the video below
Recognizing the Unseen: The Vital Role of Unpaid Carers in Mental Health
Every year, Carers Week serves as a powerful reminder of the millions of individuals who dedicate their lives to supporting loved ones with health challenges often without recognition, compensation, or adequate support.
Are you a carer in the Woolwich area? Take a well-deserved break and connect with others at our brand-new Carers Drop-In sessions! Whether you’re looking for support, information, or simply a chance to chat with others who understand, you’re warmly welcome—no referral needed.
A Caring Mind 