Coping With Caregiver Stress

A caregiver is described by the Family Caregiving Alliance (FCA) as an individual who assists another person with medical care or tasks of daily living. The majority of caregivers are a spouse, child, parent or other family member or friend. According to the FCA, over 65 million people in the United States are caregivers. 

Caregivers may perform a wide variety of duties depending on their loved one’s medical condition. It is not uncommon for caregivers to give medication, and assist with bathing and toileting and meal preparation. Although acute illnesses, such as cancer, may lead to the need for a caregiver, it may only be temporary. People with serious chronic illnesses are more likely to need a caregiver. Long-term care facilities are an option for some people who require ongoing medical care. But in most cases, families care for a loved one at home. Common conditions that may require a caregiver include Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injuries and strokes.   

Caregiver Burnout And Stress 

No matter how much you care about someone, acting as their caregiver can become stressful. The reasons why caregiver stress occurs is varied. For example, if you are taking care of a person who is ill, it can be frightening. The uncertainty of the situation can make you worry, which builds anxiety.

The costs associated with living with a chronic illness can be high and cause stress among caregivers. Co-payments, medications and other expenses can add up. There may also be lost wages, which compounds the financial difficulties. 

In addition, the demands of constant care can become overwhelming. Depending on your family member’s condition, he or she may require around the clock care. You also never know when a crisis will develop. If care is demanding, it can leave little time for other activities, which also increases stress.

If you are taking care of a loved one, you probably focus on them and not yourself. But if you develop complications related to stress and health problems, you will not be good to anyone. It is important to recognize signs of caregiver stress and find ways to cope.

Signs of caregiver stress include feeling tired all the time and being depressed and anxious. Being irritable and having trouble sleeping are also signs. Some caregivers may also become resentful or have trouble concentrating. Additionally, caregivers who develop stress and burnout may have trouble relating and become impatient with the person they are caring for. Feelings of helplessness are also common. 

See Also: What To Expect From A Long Hospital Stay And Recovery

Taking care of another person if you have burnout is not an option for anyone. Without getting the proper help, caregiver burnout can lead to health problems for the caregiver, as well as inadequate care for the ill person.