Expert: Jeni Hooper - 7/1/2010

Question
I'm currently 20 years old and on the verge of getting my GED but my mom is elderly and I want to be there to help her out and become a home attendent for her cause she doesn't want sum1else there so my question is who do I go to or how do I go about situateing my life plus being able to help my mom and be there for her at the same time  without haveing to go too far from her. Normally I wanted to finish highschool qnd etc but my mom have become more sickly and I need to be there for her so how can I make this all work to where I can be there to help her because there is no1 else and at the same time prosper in my life with school and etc.? Pleasei need help.

Answer
Hi Amanda,

I am sorry to hear that your mum is unwell, she must be proud of your willingness to help her. However you must also prepare for the future so that you are able to get work throughout your life and not be worried about unemployment or depending on welfare. A good education will make sure you are able to take care of yourself. Education is vital and could make the difference between a good job and a boring low paid one.

I am writing from England so am not sure what exact help and advice is available to you in school but do find out and book an appointment with people who can help you. In the UK there are support arrangements for young people like yourself who are looking after their parents. I would expect you have an equivalent to the UK Young Carers support. Also talk to your school counselor and to the careers advice people.

Do you feel you could take a friend into your confidence. Having someone you trust to talk to can make things seem less bleak.

Good luck to you. To look after your mum well you also have to look after yourself too.

Jeni Hooper
Happy2Learn