CARERS of people with dementia in the North-East are being asked to take part in an online research trial, after a survey revealed the emotional toll of caring.

Nine out of ten respondents to the Alzheimer's Society survey said they experience feelings of stress or anxiety several times a week – with 80 per cent saying they find it difficult to talk about their feelings.

The charity is appealing for volunteers from across the North-East and North Yorkshire to take part in Caring For Me and You, a research trial that will test tailored online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and support designed to help carers find ways of coping with the pressures of their role.

Alzheimer's Society has joined forces with Oxford NHS Foundation Trust for the research trial.

The team is looking for carers of people with dementia who have felt the emotional pressures of caring, and have access to a computer, to come forward and help test the effectiveness of new online therapy packages.

CBT is a tool used to combat anxiety and helps people to develop coping strategies by working through their thoughts, feelings, and approaches to particular situations.

Until now, online CBT has not been tailored to the needs of people who experience stress and anxiety as a result of their caring role.

There are 700,000 people in the UK who care for someone with dementia.

Dr Doug Brown, director of research and development at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “In this country, unpaid dementia carers prop up our health and social care system.

"This silent army of husbands, wives, sons and daughters spend 1.3 billion hours a year providing care.

"This can take an enormous toll on their emotional health and wellbeing.

To assess your suitability to take part in the study, visit caringformeandyou.org.uk