Caring for others is rewarding but comes with challenges. Neha (N-ay-ha) Khanna Vanderhyde (she/her) on her caring responsibilities for friends and families and how you can make a difference.
Neha is Learning Experience Design Lead in our Melbourne Office. Thank you, Neha, for taking the time to share your story of caring
Tell us about your caring responsibilities:
My husband and I have 2 children – a 6yo and a 9yo. We care for our 20yo nephew who lives with us, and our 2xyo niece who lives close by. My mother-in-law doesn’t live with us, but we care for her. My parents lived with us for a few years, while we helped care for my dad; and on top of that, I want to care for all my close people! 6 months ago, I had 3 close friends in situations of domestic violence and separation, and I just felt like I had to look after them and their children. It’s part of who I am, but sometimes I need to step back and look after me and my immediate family.
What’s the best thing about being a carer?
Doing lots for others makes me feel really happy and good. I get happy endorphins 😊. I think “why wouldn’t you”. It’s not going out of my way to care; it’s natural and I just do it….
What’s the hardest thing about being a carer?
Trying to look after everyone and giving too much of myself. Sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough, but I can’t do everything, and it is frustrating.
To raise awareness and understanding of carers, what is it that you would like people to know or take away, so they can better support carers in their teams and lives?
People think that caring is just about kids. There are different caring needs – family, friends, extended family. It’s also about those around you. If someone close to you is going through something, then be there for them. Whether you have personal caring responsibilities, or not, keep an eye out on people around you. You can be that caring person for someone. Ask them if they are ok, go for a coffee. Talk to people around you if you need help and care.
Thank you, Neha, for widening our views on caring and giving us some takeaways to better support carers in our teams and lives.
We encourage you to get to know your team members and better understand their unique caring responsibilities and needs.
