Join Tri-City Psychology Services in honoring caregivers. We’re committed to providing them with the resources and advocacy they need to support those with mental illness.
Caregivers do more than just help with physical needs. They nurture emotional well-being by offering companionship, forming genuine connections, and creating a sense of security
Being the sole provider or caregiver to an elderly family member can be very rewarding, but it also can be very stressful. In today’s busy world it is women who often sacrifice their own physical and emotional needs to meet the competing demands of work, family and elder care. Research has shown that 40-70% of family caregivers of older adults have symptoms of depression, and 25-50% of these caregivers meet the criteria of major depression.
According to Johns Hopkins University experts – ’ Caregivers are often so busy caring for their loved one that they often neglect their own well-being’.
It’s important to be alert to the signs of caregiver burnout and to watch out for these signs of caregiver stress:
- Feeling irritable or sad
- Crying more often than usual
- Having low energy levels
- Feeling trapped
- Feeling as if you don’t have any time to yourself
- Experiencing trouble sleeping or not wanting to get out of bed in the morning
- Appetite changes
- Seeing friends or relatives less often
- Losing interest in people and things you enjoy
- Feeling angry with the person you are caring for or at other people or situations
Below are some strategies for taking care of yourself if you are a caregiver:
- Take care of your health. See your doctor regularly. Improve your diet. Get enough sleep.
- Seek emotional support. Join a support group or talk with family, friends or a therapist about how you feel.
- Take time out. Socializing with friends, reading, meditating, listening to music -can help relieve stress and provide distraction and perspective. Cut yourself some slack.
- Set limits and learn to say “no” when you feel overwhelmed. Recognize and learn how to deal with negative feeling such as anger or guilt
Caregiving Can be Stressful- Get the help you need
If you are a caregiver for someone with a disabling condition such as Alzheimer’s.You may be feeling overwhelmed . The Alzheimers Association has put together a Caregiver Stress Test Check. Don’t put your own health at risk , do the test, and then if you need to get the help you need.
Are you, or someone you know experiencing caregiver stress? Would like to talk about it, or are you curious to hear more about how we can help you?
You are not alone in this journey. When stress becomes unmanageable, we offer compassionate and non-judgmental support. We can help you discover your inner strength and motivation, and guide you towards a brighter future.
Call us ~ (1) 778 353 2553 or submit a contact form link ( below)
