A mother shares her experience of caring for her son living with bipolar

As Carers Week 2026 launches today (Monday 8 June), Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust is recognising the vital contribution of unpaid carers by sharing the experience of one of its colleagues, who cares for her son living with bipolar.

Carers Week is an annual campaign that brings together thousands of people and organisations across the UK to raise awareness of unpaid carers, recognise the important role they play, and highlight the challenges they can face.

Pippa Macdonald, Head of Allied Health Professions for the trust, who has worked in mental health services for more than 20 years, reflects on her role as both a healthcare professional and a mother.

Although her professional background gave her an understanding of mental health conditions, she says nothing fully prepared her for the personal experience of supporting a loved one through periods of illness and recovery.

In a special interview for Carers Week, she discusses the challenges of balancing caring responsibilities with work and family life, as well as the emotional impact caring can have on a person’s own wellbeing.

Pippa, reflecting on her experience, said: “One of the hardest parts of being a carer is hearing your child say things that no parent ever wants to hear. There have been times when I have felt frightened, helpless and unsure of what the future might hold.

“Over the years, I have learned how important it is to look after yourself as well as the person you care for. As carers, we can become so focused on supporting someone else that we forget about our own wellbeing. Taking time to rest, talking to people you trust and asking for help when you need it can make a real difference.

“Living with bipolar disorder can bring many challenges, but it is also important to celebrate the positives. I have learned to recognise and value the small wins as well as the big milestones. Whether it is a good day, a new achievement or a step forward in recovery, those moments matter and give us hope.

“I am incredibly proud of my son and everything he has overcome.”

The interview highlights the realities of caring for someone with a serious mental health condition, while also recognising the resilience, dedication and compassion shown by unpaid carers every day.

As part of Carers Week, the trust is recognising the invaluable contribution made by carers across Kent and Medway and reinforcing the importance of ensuring carers are recognised, listened to and supported as partners in care.

The full interview will be shared during Carers Week across the trust’s social media channels, where Pippa shares her experiences, advice and reflections to help raise awareness and encourage other carers to seek support when they need it.

If you are an unpaid carer, Carers Week is an opportunity to learn more about the support available and to take time to focus on your own health and wellbeing. The trust encourages carers across Kent and Medway to seek advice, access local services and ensure they receive the support they need alongside their caring responsibilities.