Who cares for the carer?

When Jacqui’s brother struggled with substance dependence from a young age, their parents provided the support he needed. But when they passed away, Jacqui stepped in – suddenly responsible for not just her brother, but his growing emotional and financial dependence.

“I needed to learn about how to care and still set boundaries, because I had none,” Jacqui said.

“It reached breaking point because I was not only taking care of him but also supporting his family.”

Her caregiving expanded to include his partner and their baby daughter. The weight of responsibility felt overwhelming. That’s when Jacqui found Each’s alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselling service.

Through their support, Jacqui gained the tools to navigate the challenges of caregiving, helping her set boundaries, and regain control of her finances.

But her caregiving journey was far from over.

Years later, Jacqui’s niece arrived in Australia alone at 15, after years of moving between Japan and Australia. Without hesitation, Jacqui became her primary carer.

The adjustment wasn’t easy for the both of them. Her niece struggled with school, the pain of family separation and the instability of her past. And Jacqui – already carrying so much – felt the strain on her own mental health.

Recognising she needed help, Jacqui turned to our youth and family counselling service. With their guidance and a listening, she found ways to support her niece while protecting her own wellbeing.

“Every family situation is unique, but the underlying challenges are similar,” Jacqui said.

“The youth and family counselling service helped me to find ways to navigate and manage them.”

Without that support, Jacqui believes her niece may have dropped out of school, and Jacqui herself would have struggled to cope.

Jacqui’s home is a safe and stable place where her niece can grow and thrive. And Jacqui? She’s no longer just surviving – she’s confident in her role as a carer, knowing she doesn’t have to do it alone.

“In the midst of chaos, it’s important to remember that we are not alone,” Jacqui said.

“Each helped me realise that other carers face similar struggles and provided me with invaluable support. Each is amazing, offering life-changing support. I don’t know where I would be without them.”