Just Ask: Am I a Caregiver?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre
Many people don’t think of themselves as caregivers. They see themselves as a loving partner, a daughter or son, a neighbour who checks in, or a friend who is always there when needed. Yet caregiving is everywhere, one in four Canadians are currently an unpaid family or friend caregiver. It happens behind closed doors, in quiet moments, and in the spaces between work, family, and everyday life.
Caregiving often begins quietly. It might start with driving someone to an appointment, helping with paperwork or checking in more often. Over time, those small acts of care can grow into something much bigger. If you regularly support someone with daily life, health needs, or emotional support, you may already be a caregiver — even if you’ve never called yourself one.
So, how do you know if you’re a caregiver?
Just ask yourself:
- Do I regularly help someone with appointments, medications, daily tasks, or decisions?
- Do I worry or feel responsible for a loved one’s health, safety, or wellbeing?
- Have I changed my routine, work, or plans to support someone else?
- Do I provide ongoing emotional support to someone who is aging, ill, or struggling?
Recognizing this role can be powerful. It can help explain why you feel tired, overwhelmed, or stretched thin — and why your experience deserves support, not silence. If you are a caregiver, taking care of yourself matters too. Even small acts of self-care are not selfish — they are essential.
On the Sunshine Coast, the Resource Centre offers support through the Caregiver Support Network. Courtney, the Caregiver Support Coordinator, offers one-to-one support, personalized action plans and helps connect caregivers to community services, supports and more.
The program also offers support groups, Q&A sessions and workshops designed to build skills and a network of support. Upcoming opportunities include a Caregiver Tax Benefits Q&A Session on Tuesday, February 17, 10–11am, at the Seniors Gathering Place (5674 Cowrie Street, Sechelt). The next Caregivers on the Coast Support Group is on Thursday, February 26 from 1:30–2:30pm at Harmony Hall in Gibsons (686 Harmony Lane). These are held monthly and rotate between locations across the Coast and Zoom. More information is available at resourcecentre.ca.
Whether you’ve been caregiving for years or are just beginning to recognize yourself in that role, support is available. Sometimes it’s not about doing more — it’s about knowing you don’t have to do everything alone. If you’ve ever wondered whether you might be a caregiver, chances are you are one. You deserve connection, understanding, and support.
Sometimes the first step is simply asking the questions. For more information about the Caregiver Support Network or if you want to be included workshop and meeting reminder email list, contact Courtney by emailing caregivers@resourcecentre.ca, or calling/texting 604.741.2470.