Mon. 14th Mar. 2016
Caregivers do get depressed. Whether it is denied or accepted, it is real. Statistics tell us that more than 33% of caregivers suffer from depression. In clinical practice, the statistics simply validate what we see.
Caregivers come from many sources and may not have been asked or even expected to provide the care that they give unselfishly. It does not matter whether the caregiver is the spouse or significant other or someone else that is not even related to the senior. The likelihood of depression is still there.
What can you do to minimize the risk of becoming depressed?
- Admit that you cannot do it all. You are only human. Ask for help. There are individuals in your community and within your network of friends and acquaintances that are ready and willing to help. They will not do the caregiving like you do, but they will do a good job. You need respite time to rejuvenate so you can continue with your caregiving responsibility.
- Do not be angry when family members refuse to help or lend a hand. We can each do only what we are capable of doing. Others do not have the stamina or desire to assist with caregiving. If the answer is no, let it go and look to other sources.
- Do not feel guilty if you are short or abrupt with the senior. Even the most loving caregiver can reach of point of mental and physical exhaustion. You are doing a great job and are not perfect and stress takes its toll.
- Seek professional help to keep you healthy and strong. If you get exhausted from your caregiving responsibility, who will be there for caregiving for your loved one.
Keep up the good work you do, but remember that you are not a robot. You have feelings, fears, anxiety and anticipatory grief. All of these things weigh heavily and by acknowledging them and acting on options you can stay healthy.
If you, or someone you know is a caregiver and suffering from depression, please contact me for advice on what to do and how to cope.