Meet Zoe, a carer who’s learnt that being a good carer is not just about caring for her two neurodiverse daughters – it’s about taking care of herself too.
This was learnt the hard way. After separating from her husband several years ago, life became very difficult for Zoe and at times she struggled to see the way forward. That’s when she reached out to Carer Gateway for support.
Feeling supported by Carer Gateway
Zoe cares for two daughters, aged 11 and 14 years, who live with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Anxiety and Depression.
With no family support and a full-time job, it’s the strategies Zoe has learned through Carer Gateway that have helped her better manage her situation.
According to Zoe, the support planner knew what she needed even when she didn’t.
“The planner knew I was struggling and had supports in place to help me get on top of things within a couple of weeks. I guess I didn’t see myself as a carer. I had two kids with a disability, and for me that’s just the norm – it’s my life.”
“The Carer Gateway Support Planners were able to connect me with services and opportunities that would support me, helping to find a solicitor, access the NDIS and Carer Allowance, and providing counselling, coaching and opportunities to help me connect with other carers.
For Zoe, being able to access many of these services online was a game-changer.
“Many of these support services were offered online, which made it so much easier for me.”
Zoe today
It is now more than six months since Zoe first sought support and advice from Carer Gateway, and although at times life can still prove challenging, the counselling and coaching she has received through the program has left her better equipped to navigate difficult situations.
“It’s the small wins that keep me going.
Today, she uses the tools and strategies she has learned as part of her daily routine, ensuring she can be her best self even when times get tough.
“Counselling and Coaching provided me with valuable skills to help me manage daily life and remain present in difficult moments. With goal setting and stress management, and simple techniques like deep breathing or visualising, I can regulate my emotions and think more clearly. This means I’m better able to take care of my girls – and myself.”
“It’s the small wins that keep me going. When I see my daughters have little successes, it motivates me. I want them to become as independent and successful as they can, and I am determined to help create the opportunities that will help get them there”.
Advice to others
“Keep going and don’t give up!
“Ask for help. It can be hard to ask for help or even recognise that you need it, but I am glad I did. It is one of the best decisions I have made”.
Zoe dreams of one day taking the girls on a plane for a holiday. Given her determination and drive, there is no doubt she’ll make it happen.
Names have been changed for privacy
