I agree, good thread.
Since I am part of this "category" so to speak....I will say that if one chooses to be a carer (and it is a choice), then it's so important to have your eyes open. I think a carer would have to have an excellent support network which could include counselling (as it does for me). Of course you would want support from your partner, I mean that's what a partnership is right? I am learning that when my partner shuts me out, I need to look inwards because I can only control what is going on within myself in this moment. I can choose to feel hurt and neglected (and it happens because I'm human), and or I can choose to remember that my partner is a wonderful supportive man when he is able, I just can't plan when that's going to happen...(wish I could)! "Through good times and in bad" so they say, I am learning to just take it one day at a time.....sometimes 1 hour at a time. The thing to remember for me, is that he has been there for me, and will be again.
Thanks for the thread.