Topic Tuesday // Being a male in a caring role // Tues 25 June, 7pm AEST

[Determined]

@Former-Member I have only recently become frank and open about some of the challanges around this and this was only in the midst of a year long crisis when  it became a bit hard to hide. Before that I used to sugar coat and cover things up thinking I was protecting my darling. 

[MrDad]

I find it difficult to talk to others. I have a lot of professionals involved from GP, specialists, counsellors, therapists and support workers. My friends know that there are issues in my family life and close friends are aware of the problems. However it is usually talk about what my wife and kids issues are. We never really talk about the effects on me or any problems I might have in dealing with it all. That seems to be for the professionals only.

[Former-Member]

@Nino - welcome, glad you have joined us! 

[Greg_MenCareToo]

@Nino That's great you have a supportive workplace/employer.

[Adge]

Hi everyone.

An important topic @Greg_MenCareToo

As a male carer, working with people who have disabilities - many of whom are non-verbal, & who display challenging behaviours (so-called).

I find that it is frequently assumed that women are more caring (& better at it). Therefore many of our clients will only accept a woman working with them.

Also, us male carers are often matched with people (clients) who display physical aggression. I've been physically injured on occasions, as a result.

Women carers are not expected to work with these people, in my disability services organisation.

Adge

[Determined]

I don't have a lot of friends to discuss it with so that has never been a problem. 

In some cases in recent times I have possibly been too open but that was when I was at a point of unraveling and needed to unload a bit. These forums have been invaluable for that. 

[Nino]

thanks, I literally just signed up about half an hour ago so trying to work out how to post etc as we go

[Nino]

I hear you. I had similar experiences working in disabilities and aged care sector.

[JMRD]

It depends. 

At times, I was quite happy to talk about the problem and seek out advice. Other times, I would try to figure a way out myself.

I think it also depends on whether I felt comfortable around the person I was talking to.

[Greg_MenCareToo]

@Determined One thing that comes up when talking about men in general is that we are reluctant to accept any help until there is a crisis, our help seeking is somewhat delayed and different to women.