Insight S2017 Ep18 - Sibling Carers

Every family dynamic has inherent tensions, but what's it like if your brother or sister has a disability; how does it affect you? Siblings talk about growing up with a complex mix of emotions: love, loyalty, care and compassion for their disabled sibling, but also shame, anger, guilt, resentment and grief. Many say they didn't complain as they were the 'lucky ones'. Mum and dad had enough on their plate, so they worked hard to be the good child amid the chaos. What's the price of suppressing feelings and desires so young? Siblings of people with disabilities report high rates of anxiety and depression in their adolescent years, but as adults they also tend to be high academic achievers, responsible and compassionate.