THE Traralgon Carers Support Group aims to prevent carers from “getting burnt out” by hosting a regular social morning tea.
Throughout Carers Week, which begins Sunday, TCSG will publicise its support group, which currently has 14 members who meet fortnightly.
Traralgon Carers Support Group member Maria Rowe described the group as “open book” and only required members to take a plate to share and $1 for the hire of the Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House, Breed Street room.
“Sometimes we have guest speakers, other times we just have a cry and a vent, we just spit out (what’s on our mind) over the table, have a hug, and then go on to the next person,” Mrs Rowe said.
After joining three years ago, Mrs Rowe said she was dependent on the strong support network the group provided.
“We support each other; some of us don’t have support,” she said.
“The support group is very important, as much as you try not to, you do get burnt out.
“Most of us are a carer (for) two, and its a 24 hour-job, so you can’t help but getting burnt out.”
After moving from Pakenham, Mrs Rowe said she was “screaming out for some help” and didn’t know anyone in the area.
“Most of us are different but technically we are in the same boat but different cabin,” she said.
“It’s funny, you sit around the table, talk about things nothing to do with caring and then it flows from there.
“We are all good mates and understand what we are all going through.”
Traralgon Carers Support Group meets every first and third Tuesday of the month at Traralgon Neighbourhood Learning House, Breed Street from 9.15am to 11am.
For more information phone Maria Rowe on 5176 4713.
