Talking to Your Own Support Network
Launch library · evergreen read
Supporters need their own network too, people they can turn to for care, perspective, and simple companionship during a genuinely difficult stretch. This matters just as much for supporters as for anyone they support. This is worth prioritising, not treating as an afterthought to everything else. This is worth revisiting regularly, not only during particularly hard weeks.
Leaning on this network, rather than trying to manage everything alone, models exactly the kind of support you are offering someone else in return. This is worth treating as seriously as the support you give to others. This becomes easier with small, consistent habits practised over time. It protects your own capacity to keep showing up for others.
1800RESPECT is on 1800 737 732, and Lifeline is on 13 11 14, both available any hour to add to your own support network. It is completely okay to take things one small step at a time. Reaching out is always a reasonable step to take, whenever you feel ready. Nobody expects you to have all the answers before you call.