Carers feeling the strain - Carer's Week 18-25 June
18 June 2012
Author: MS Trust
Carers Week has launched with the publication of a survey that reveals the significant impact of caring on both physical and mental health. The survey shows that two in five unpaid carers are sacrificing their own health by putting off medical treatment while caring for sick or disabled friends or family.
The survey of 3400 people found that:
- 87% said caring had affected their mental health
- 83% said caring had affected their physical health
- 40% had put off receiving medical treatment because of their role as carer
- 36% said they had sustained injuries such as back pain
Carers Week is an annual awareness raising week that recognises and celebrates the contribution made by unpaid carers.