1 Why your well-being is important

Although most people gain a lot from the relationship with the people they are supporting, the responsibilities can often have a negative impact on their health and general well-being. Carers may dedicate so much time and effort into caring for someone else that they can neglect or do not realise the effect it can have on their own health. In order for a carer to continue caring for as long as they wish to, it is important to be aware of the possible health risks. These can be both physical and emotional.

This is as true for people who are unpaid carers as for people who work in the social care field.

1.1 What is well-being?