Tips on being a young carer – from someone who knows

Studying for exams is pretty stressful for all of us but some students are caring for a member of their family at the same time.

That's what Alex has to do. He's 17 and is studying for his AS levels.

He cares for his mum who has MS, a condition which affects the nerves in the body which means she has had to learn to walk again. Her condition will gradually get worse over time.

"If mum has a bad day then there's a knock-on effect," Alex tells Newsbeat.

"[It means] I'm going to have a bad day too because I've then got to get everything ready - and I'm going to be worrying about her while I'm at school."

As well as caring or his mum, Alex also cares for his grandparents.

Today is #YoungCarersAwarenessDay. There are thousands of young carers in the UK, but many don't get any support and more than half are bullied at school.

Alex is fundraising for the Young Carers Festival which gives those with caring responsibilities the chance to have a break.

"You make lots of new friends because there are people there that you can relate to. You just seem to fit in a lot better because you're with everybody who does the same thing as you."

This is Alex out fundraising. Below are his tips to other young carers

Remember that there are other people in the same situation as you

If you need any help or you're feeling down then reach out for help.

Alex is supported by an organisation called Spurgeons which works with young carers.

They suggest contacting your local council to find out about your nearest young carers group.

Don't keep your worries to yourself

Talk to a teacher at school and let them know that you're a young carer, so you can get the right support.

It's important to take time for yourself

Listen to music, read a book and do things you enjoy.

Be proud of what you do and try to find time for laughter.

Remember how important you are

"We are the hidden army of carers which so many adults or siblings couldn't deal without," says Alex.

And that it's OK to feel annoyed sometimes

You didn't ask to become a carer. It's fine to say "no" sometimes.

You don't need to feel guilty for wanting time to yourself, or to spend it with your friends.

There's more help and advice about being a young carer on these BBC Advice pages.

If you want to chat to others or get some advice there here are two useful websites.

If you're under 18 you can also visit babble.carers.org Or if you're aged between 16 and 25 visit matter.carers.org.

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