The data from the Caring for Informal Carers Movement surveys show that there are many issues facing these carers in Portugal, but one gap that stands out is the lack of psychological support. In fact, 83% of respondents had at some point felt that they were in a state of burnout/emotional exhaustion, with 79% agreeing that their state of mental health affected the performance of their role as an informal carer. 

Aware of this need, and following the last Connect Pilot Project, Europacolon Portugal and Merck Portugal, as members of the Movement have launched a psychological support line for informal carers.

The helpline, which is open to carers supporting anyone with any disease (not only oncology diseases), will operate for six months, five days a week, from Monday to Friday, between 10am and 12pm and 3pm and 6pm, will be completely free of charge and will have the support of psychology professionals who will be responsible for answering the carers’ questions, in a space where they can share their emotions and psychological difficulties, or just vent.

“By improving the psychological wellbeing and mental health of carers, we are also helping to improve the quality of life of those they care for. Support like this is needed,” says Vítor Neves, President of Europacolon Portugal.

Author:
Ruel Jacob