Young and nurturing
When you take responsibility at home
Maybe you look after your mother, father, grandparents or a sibling because they are ill or need support. Then you are a so-called "young carer" - a young family member who takes on a lot of responsibility at home. You are not alone: it is estimated that around 480,000 children and young people like you live in Germany - around 96,000 of them in North Rhine-Westphalia.
If this sounds like you, you've come to the right place. You can find out what it means to be young and caring, why it can sometimes be quite stressful - and above all: where you can get help.
What does it mean to be a young carer?
Getting up early, making breakfast, dressing younger siblings, getting medication ready for a family member - and then getting to school on time: this is everyday life for many young people who look after someone at home.
Young carers:
- help with household chores,
- assist with washing, cooking or going to the toilet,
- accompany to doctor's appointments,
- listen and are there when a family member is emotionally unwell,
- take care of younger siblings when parents are unable to.
This often happens quietly without others noticing - even at school or among friends.
Between classroom and care
Caring, helping, taking responsibility - these are big tasks. Especially if you want to study, do homework and meet up with friends at the same time. Maybe you sometimes barely have time for yourself, for hobbies or breaks. Maybe you often feel tired, overwhelmed or sad.
Many people are afraid to talk about it. The fear of not being understood or feeling ashamed is great. But: You are not to blame for the situation. And you can get help and support.
Do you need relief? That's where you can turn:
If you feel alone, overwhelmed or simply need someone to talk to, it helps to confide in someone. This could be someone from your family - or someone outside of it. There are many offers of help where you will be taken seriously and who will listen to you. You can find support here:
Regional contact points:
In addition, there are many regional advice services and contact points that you can turn to, including:
Further information Links to read more
