Janice Arnoldi
Janice Arnoldi
Young Caregivers Are Providing Basic Needs for Their Parents and Siblings
Young Caregivers Are Providing Basic Needs for Their Parents and Siblings
Young Caregivers Are Providing Basic Needs for Their Parents and Siblings
Wednesday 25th September 2024
Discover the untold stories of young caregivers providing essential support to their families. Learn about their challenges and the support they receive.
24 minutes
Inspiring
Compassionate
Informative
Supportive
Hopeful
About this podcast
Author:
Janice Arnoldi
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Parenting & Children
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Episodes:
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Get the buttons here!The Hidden Heroes: Young Caregivers' Stories
Episode Overview
- Young caregivers often start as early as five years old.
- They take on significant responsibilities like grooming and administering medication.
- Emotional stress is a common issue among young carers.
- Young Caregivers offers various support programmes including summer camps and counselling.
- Peer support plays a crucial role in helping young caregivers cope.
He knew exactly what to do, what to look for, and he called 911 and saved his mum at the age of eight
Young caregivers are often the unsung heroes in families dealing with chronic illness, disabilities, mental health issues, and substance use. In this episode of 'Life Unscripted - Stories of Mental Health and Addiction', host Janice Arnoldi shines a light on the lives of these young carers, some as young as five, who take on significant responsibilities to support their loved ones.
Janice is joined by Chrissy Siddowski, the interim executive director of Young Caregivers, an organisation dedicated to providing support and resources for these young individuals across Canada. Chrissy shares the history and mission of Young Caregivers, which started 20 years ago through the Alzheimer's Society and has since expanded nationally. The conversation delves into the various roles young caregivers play, from helping with daily tasks like grooming and feeding to more complex medical responsibilities.
Chrissy recounts powerful stories, such as an eight-year-old boy who saved his mother's life during a diabetic coma, highlighting the immense pressure and maturity these children often exhibit. The episode also explores the emotional toll on young caregivers, who frequently experience stress and anxiety without adequate outlets for their feelings. Chrissy discusses the organisation's diverse range of programmes designed to offer respite, skill-building, and peer support.
From summer camps to clinical counselling, these initiatives aim to provide a much-needed break and a sense of community for young carers. Listeners will gain insight into the unique challenges faced by young caregivers and the importance of recognising and supporting their efforts. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience and the often-overlooked contributions of these young individuals.
If you're interested in understanding more about the lives of young caregivers or know someone who might benefit from this information, this episode is a must-listen.