Young Carers

Who is a "Young Carer"?

Young carers are children or young people up to 25 years of age, who help care in families where someone has an illness, a disability, a mental health issue or who has an alcohol/drug problem.

If you are a young carer you may help care for a parent, a sibling, a child or a grandparent, or even other relatives or a friend

You might help out with cleaning or cooking, getting a relative or a friend about the house, helping with medicines, keeping them safe, showering or dressing them or just watching out to make sure they are okay

 Information for Children about BPD

The Australian BPD Foundation in collaboration with Rose Cuff, parents and staff from The Bouverie Centre have developed a information booklet for children which may be downloaded here

Children's Books related to BPD and mental illness

COPMI (Children of Parents with a Mentall Illness) 

.. a comprehensive website offering information for young people, parents & families and professionals about mental illness. Includes a number of books to read to young children to help explain mental illness.

emerging minds: advancing mental health of infants, children and adolescents

...is dedicated to advancing the mental health and emotional wellbeing of Australian infants, children, adolescents and their families.

Also refer to our list of suggested Children's books

Carers Australia - Young Carers

Freecall 1800 242 636
The Young carers website offers information and tips on how to look after yourself and the person you are caring for.  (NB Not specific for mental health)

Kids Helpline

1800 55 1800 -  telephone support line available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. For children and young adults up to 25.

Webchat, email counselling and information available on their website

Reachout!...........

.......is a website for young people and covers a whole range of topics. It includes a forum where you can discuss your issues with other young people. Info, chat, forums, apps and phone support

It’s All Right

An informative website about dealing with mental illness run by SANE Australia. It offers lots of information that’s easy to understand as well as some "fun stuff".

Kids Matter (Australian Early Childhood Mental Health Initiative)

 Kids Health...

........ is not just for kids. This excellent website is all about explaining health issues in a way that is easy to understand.

Separate portals for kids, teens, parents and educators.  (USA based)