Being a parent of five children aged from two to twenty-two can be busy, but when each of those five children has special needs, life can become a little crazy.
Meet Kylie: a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a carer to each of her five children.
As a parent and carer of children who live with a range of disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, speech delays, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Anxiety and other mental health challenges, Kylie has a lot on her plate.
On top of her caring responsibilities, she is also a pillar of support for her wife, who has been living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since being involved in a serious car accident. And that’s all before you factor in her full-time job – and a second casual one.
For Kylie, the constant juggle has taken a toll, and keeping everything afloat has become a daily mountain she must climb.
Carer Gateway
Kylie first learned about Carer Gateway over a year ago, and although it took a little while for her to make that initial phone call, once she did, there was no looking back.
Kylie finally began to get some much-needed support.
Through Carer Gateway, Kylie participated in counselling sessions and carer coaching, and she’s now looking forward to joining an online peer support group.
She says, “counselling has been so helpful for my mental health, providing a space to talk and vent. The coaching has also been beneficial, helping me realise I was taking on too much – I needed to step back from some responsibilities.”.
“I have now set realistic goals and adopted some self-care strategies, like going to the gym once the kids are in bed, and I have noticed improvements in my sleep and my ability to make better choices.”
For Kylie, knowing she isn’t alone on this journey has made all the difference. She appreciates the genuine care, concern, and encouragement she receives from those around her, and this motivates her to keep going.
Through coaching, Kylie has learned to let go of the guilt she felt about seeking help and understands that it is OK to care for herself as well. She actively practices mindfulness and allows herself a little grace during challenging times.
Joys and Challenges
“What I love most is the deep connection I have with my wife and children. Overcoming the challenges together and celebrating the small wins along the way is incredibly rewarding.
Watching my children achieve their goals, seeing them grow in strength as they navigate their own challenge keeps me motivated. The cuddles and the ‘I love you’s’ I hear keep me going”.
Although Kylie faces daily pressures and often has no time for herself, she still acknowledges the significant difference working with a counsellor and coach has made in her day-to-day life.
Hopes for the future
Kylie dreams of achieving financial security for her family of seven. She hopes to travel one day and to continue taking a little time for herself when needed.
Having devoted her life to her family, Kylie hopes the tools and skills her children have learned will prepare them for a positive future. She would like to see them living independently, making good choices, and enjoying healthy relationships with the people around them.
Helpful advice
“Prioritise yourself and your wellbeing – it’s critical”.
“Reach out to Carer Gateway for support. They offer counselling for mental health, coaching for setting personal goals and peer support groups for building connections with other carers.
“And remember, you’re not alone. You’re doing everything you can. It’s important you prioritise your own health because if you are unwell, it impacts everyone around you”.
Names have been changed for privacy
