A study conducted by the statistical services of the Ministry of Health (Drees) in France has found that people who provide intensive care to a close relative with a disability, chronic illness, or loss of autonomy tend to report slightly worse mental and physical health compared to those who do not provide such care. These "intensive carers," who number over one million in France, are 8 percentage points more likely to report symptoms of depression than the general population. Similarly, they report 4 percentage points more physical pain than people who do not regularly assist a family member or friend. The findings are based on data collected in 2019. This imbalance is not unique to France. Similar patterns are observed across nearly all European countries. In terms of mental health, the difference between the most active carers and non-carers is most pronounced in Norway (15 percentage points), Belgium (11 points), and Ireland (10 points). For physical pain, Belgium (14 points) and Norway (11 points) also show the largest gaps. When asked about their overall health, ranging from very good to very bad, intensive carers in France do not report a "significant" difference compared to non-carers, according to the Drees. The same is true for all carers who provide care at least once a week: the difference in their reported overall health compared to non-carers is "close to zero" and not statistically significant. Despite this, 5.9 million carers in France, including intensive carers, express a need for respite, according to another Drees study. Intensive carers are especially likely to feel this need, with 65% of those providing at least five hours of daily care saying they require a dedicated break, compared to 22% of those providing less than one hour of care. A right to respite has been legally recognized in France since 2015, but accessing it is not always straightforward. According to a 2022 survey, 49% of carers who need a break are unable to access it in a satisfactory way, particularly among women, parents, and siblings who are carers. Respite is often facilitated by support from family, friends, or professionals, or through periods of independence for the person being cared for. Respite in dedicated facilities is rare, possibly due to a lack of available services or awareness of what is available. A week before National Carers Day, which is held on October 6, the Drees emphasizes that effective access to respite depends partly on better information for carers about the resources available and their rights, especially in less advantaged social groups. The organization highlights that family carers are at risk of negative impacts on their personal lives, careers, and health. As a result, respite and the systems that support it are considered essential tools for providing support and preventing public health issues.