When travelling by air, passengers will regularly see notices advising them that, in the event of an emergency, if they are travelling with children or an invalid they should put on their own mask first.  If the caregiver - whether parent or friend, teacher or brother, grandmother or nurse, sister or psychiatrist – collapses they will not be able to provide proper care for the vulnerable individual.

In some jobs involving care for vulnerable individuals with emotional or mental health problems – e.g. social work, psychiatry – regular meetings (often called ‘supervision’) are organised to ensure that the people offering care and support don’t become too involved, don’t burn themselves out. 

Discussing particular problems with a more experienced colleague often gives a different perspective, perhaps different ideas and solutions.  By taking this Time Out to stand back and reflect, those offering support ensure that they take care of themselves, that they don’t burn out…

…so that they can continue to offer that extra support.

The same is true of home carers – they too must ensure that they don’t burn out so that they can continue offering that much-needed support.