others.
There are lots of reasons why an addiction begins, sometimes this isn’t known. This could be for the way something makes them feel physically and mentally, it can make someone feel powerful and create an enjoyment. A person may experience a feeling “high” and can often then make this hard to stop. Being addicted to something means that not having it causes withdrawal symptoms, or a “come down”. Because this can be unpleasant, it’s easier to carry on having or doing what you crave, and so the cycle continues.
This assistance comes in the form of things such as assistive technology, adaptations to the home or work environment and assistance animals. Local organisations can support with this as well as help with social engagement via community-based groups, talking books and training for Carers. Support is often offered in the home, and this supports the persons daily living as well as how it affects their family. As well as practical support, local organisations will support with the emotional impact of living with a sensory impairment.
www.nab.org.uk
www.deafconnect.org.uk
www.northnorthants.gov.uk/living-home/visual-impairment-service
Caring for somebody who has an addiction can be challenging and can often leave a Carer frustrated, confused and fear with constant worry. There is often a fear of not knowing who to talk too due to the stigmas attached to addiction. With a person who has an addiction there comes highs and lows, maybe due to withdrawal or treatment. This can then impact the Carer. There could be displays of aggression and/or verbal and physical abuse towards the Carer. In addition, this could pull the person into criminality again causing stigma and fear for the Carer.
www.westnorthants.gov.uk/getting-right-care-and-support/visual-impairment-service
www.sense.org.uk/our-services/centres/rothwell/
Sudden Illness No one plans to become a Carer. There are times when the unthinkable happens and many families are affected by sudden illnesses. Coming to terms with an illness can be very difficult, particularly when it is sudden. It can affect people in lots of different ways. While we can’t really prepare for being faced with sudden illness, it might help to know that you’re not alone in how you are feeling about it. Some people find that they ask for lots of information when faced with illness suddenly. Others feel overwhelmed and find it difficult to take in any details. Understanding your illness can be an important step in helping you feel more in control. Many people experience difficult emotions when they or a loved one is suddenly ill. You might initially feel numb or in shock about what has happened and find it difficult to know how to respond. Some people talk about it feeling like it’s a bad dream and that they can’t believe it is happening to them. You might struggle with feeling a loss of control. Feelings such as fear, sadness, anger and guilt are common. You might find it difficult to sleep and feel exhausted. These emotions are difficult and can be very intense, but at the same time, it’s important to remember that they are normal, won’t harm you and should ease with time.
For local support go to: www.familysupportlink.co.uk
Family Support Link’s mission is to provide accessible and non-judgemental support across Northamptonshire, we aim to reduce the physical, psychological and emotional harm caused to families and individuals living with or caring for someone who is addicted to drugs and/or alcohol. Sensory Impairment
A sensory impairment or sensory disability is the common term used to describe: • Hearing Impairment and Deafness
• Visual Impairment, Sight Loss or Blindness • Dual Sensory Impairment (Deaf Blindness) A sensory disability (or sensory impairment) is one which affects one or more of the senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste or spatial awareness. A person does not need to have full loss of a sense to have a sensory impairment, and some minor impairments are very common.
Further information can be found at:
www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/what-we-do/
A person does not have to have a full loss of a sense to be considered impaired. A person may be born with a Sensory Impairment, or this can develop throughout their life. With all our senses, we require the use of sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell to process. Not having partial or total control of a sense can change the way a person processes their day-to-day life, and they may then require assistance to remain safe, complete aspects of daily living or communicate effectively with
www.macmillan.org.uk
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