At just 22, Emma Milne has faced more challenges than most people her age. Growing up in a family where caring for others became second nature, Emma has spent much of her young adulthood supporting her twin brother James, who lives with severe anxiety and mobility issues, and her mum, who has also faced health challenges.
The balancing act between working full time, caring for her family and finding time for herself has been a constant challenge for this inspiring and resilient young woman, but she managed to juggle it all.
“James needs assistance with a variety of tasks due to his severe anxiety and other situations and I’ve taken on those responsibilities, especially since moving out of home in the last six months,” Emma says.
Her carer role deepened further when her mum was unable to work for six months.
“It was a lot to deal with, she says.
“A lot of the responsibilities fell on me because she couldn’t really walk or move much. Not only that, I was the sole provider financially at that time,” Emma says.
One of the biggest sources of support through it all has been headspace: an organisation providing free, early intervention mental health services for 12 to 25-year-olds.
Youturn runs eight headspace centres in South East Queensland and South Australia including Maroochydore.
Headspace has also given Emma practical tools to manage her own mental health.
“I’ve been going to headspace since I was about 14 years old,” Emma says.
“I, myself, have depression and ADHD and those things would have affected me so negatively had I not had someone there to help me navigate those feelings and cope with what I was going through.”
Through years of counselling and support from headspace, Emma has not only learned to express herself with confidence but also just how life-changing accessible mental health care can be.
“Growing up, James and I were incredibly quiet children and that persisted into high school,” Emma says.
“It was very challenging but in the last few years, I’ve been able to come out of my shell a bit more and understand that my story is something worth sharing.”
Today, thanks to the support of headspace, Emma feels hopeful and grounded.
Therapy has helped her recognise her limits and the importance of caring for herself as well as others.
“Without counselling, I wouldn’t have been able to take steps to minimise burnout and prioritise myself.”
Emma encourages other young carers to do the same.
“If you’re taking care of someone, make sure you take time go for a walk, visit a friend – just one simple thing at least once a week,” she says. “They’ll be okay. You need to be okay, too.”
With clear goals and regular counselling, Emma is optimistic about the future.
“I just want to stay on the path I’m on – to make sure my family and friends are happy and that everyone knows there’s help out there when they need it,” she says.
During Mental Health Month, Youturn encourages you to take some time out for yourself through their latest campaign.
Visit: youturn.org.au/takesomeyoutime/ or scan the QR code on page 12 to download your free tips and activities. For more information on headspace visit: headspace.org.au
