It can feel good to look after someone you care about. But it can be stressful. There are lots of things you can do to look after yourself!

• Don’t ignore feeling stressed, worried or angry. Stress is your brain’s way of telling you that you need a break.
• Talk to people when you have something on your mind. Who can help me?
• Write a diary or a poem, or draw a picture that says how you feel
• Put aside some time each day that is just for doing something you enjoy like playing computer games, phoning friends, playing a sport, listening to music or just watching your favourite TV programme. Join a young carers club.

Be assertive! This means:

• Knowing it’s ok to say “no” sometimes.
• Knowing it’s ok to want things for yourself as well as looking after other people.
• Knowing exactly what you want and telling people clearly and calmly – use your brain, not your muscles!