Alex's Answer

Hi there,  

Thanks for getting in touch with the Ask Alex service; we appreciate you taking the time to contact us. 

From what you’ve said, it seems like your Mum is sick and that you’re unsure of what to do. Looking after someone that is sick can be difficult so it’s important to get support if you need it. You might enjoy caring for your Mum and this might make you feel happy. Sometimes, however, being a young carer might make you feel under pressure. It’s good to remember to take a break and look after yourself, talk to someone about how you’re feeling and get support if needed.  

Have you thought about talking to your Mum about how you’re feeling? Or is there an adult you trust who you can talk with about your feelings and what you are experiencing?  

You can also have a look at the support available from an organisation called Family Carers Ireland (https://familycarers.ie/). You can read more about their services and the ways in which they may be able to assist you on their website. 

Remember, you’re never alone in this as Childline is always here to listen 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all young people who feel they need someone to talk to. You can reach out by phone or online chat at any time, and a member of the Childline team will be there to listen in a safe and non-judgemental space, just for you. You can contact us through our freephone service by calling 1800 66 66 66 or by web chat that you access through the website. www.childline.ie. 

We wish you all the very best, 

Alex.