Hi @pinklollipop15
Welcome back, I hope you feel supported by the community here.
Raising children is a full time job in itself and you've also been caring for your mother. That's a lot to manage, and I really respect that you've now moved out with your childen and are focusing on your family and own mental health. I imagine it's been a mix of emotions and challenges, especially with your mum still needing help with her health and moving. That sound like a heavy load to carry.
I'm wondering if your mum has any support through My Aged Care or if you could access respite care through the Carer Gateway. These services can really help lighten the pressuer a little.
https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/
Congradulations on your Counselling assessment, that's such a great achievement and a wonderful start to your studies.
When I was studying Counselling and Mental Health, I started volunteering with Vinnies as a Conference Member. I helped people in my community who were struggling, offering financial support, referrals and just being there to listnen. I still volunteer with them today because it's flexible and works around caring for my son, who lives with a disability.
I also completed my training with Lifeline and would love to volunteer there but being in a regional area makes it difficult. They do offer paid roles and have a range of training courses which I highly recommend.
https://www.lifeline.org.au/about/careers/
https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-involved/volunteer-as-a-crisis-supporter/
You might like to contact your local charity, Lifeline centre or local Neighbourhood Centre to see what volunteer opportunitiies are available. From my experience, volunteering often opens doors to paid work later on and placements can also lead to employment.
It sounds like you have a lot on your plate right now. Caring for others can be really demanding and I know from experience how easy it is to burn out. I've learned that looking after myself isn't selfish, it's necessary for me and those I care for.
I hope you find services and opportunities that fit your needs and give you some balance. Volunteering has been really rewarding for me, it's helped me find my place in the community and given me working opportunities.
I wish you all the best with your studies, caring responsibikities and importantly your own wellbeing.
Kindly Alisse
