Nearly half of Canadians 15 years of age and older have taken care of loved ones who are ill or unable to care for themselves. While many will be thrust into the role of informal caregiver, this group rarely takes care of itself, says Andi Martin, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina. “Informal caregivers are a vital resource to the Canadian health care system,” says Martin. “Yet they tend to view self-care as a selfish act.” She says providing care to others, at the expense of caring for oneself, can lead to physical and mental health problems, social isolation, sleep disorders, burnout and even premature death.