My dad and brother depend on me for everything and it breaks me down

Dear Deidre: My father and brother depend on me for everything and that breaks me down.

I’m a 23-year-old man and spend all my time running after both of you.

first

My father is 56 years old, has a disability in his back and legs, so he has mobility problems. My brother is 26 years old and suffers from anxiety and depression.

Since the age of 12, I have been their caregiver, taking them to medical and dental appointments, taking my brother to counseling appointments, grocery shopping, clothing shopping and most of the time. House chores.

None of them lifted a finger. My brother wouldn’t even lift his dirty plate off the table.

If I sat down for a while, they would offer me a cup of tea or a snack until I accepted.

I feel like I’m missing out on a lot. I have no friends because I have to stay at home to take care of my family.

DEIDRE SAYS: You’re a young man and it’s admirable that you’ve helped your dad and brother so much, but you need your own hobbies and regular breaks.

You’ve clearly fallen into the cracks of the social care system, and with the burden of responsibility on you, it’s no wonder you’re depressed.

I am sending you my Help For Carers support package which has a lot of resources.

Please contact Carers UK (carersuk.org, helpline 0808 808 7777).

My father and older than b

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