Caregivers Need Support Too !
Almost 30 % of Americans are caregivers, you are not alone.
As life expectancies are on the rise increasing numbers of people will live with chronic illness and disabilities, and more of us will participate in the caregiving process. There are many different types of family caregiver situations.
- Caring for an aging parent or parents
- Caring for a spouse or family member with a physical handicap
- Caring for a spouse of family member with physical or mental illness
- Being a parent and caring for a family
No matter what the situation you are sure to be facing challenges.
If you’re like most family caregivers, you aren’t trained for the responsibilities you now face. And you probably never anticipated you’d be in this situation. Being a caregiver can be a roller coaster ride, filled with complex emotions and many ups and downs. Being a caregiver can be rewarding but it is also very stressful. In order to be an effective care giver you need to make sure you “care” for yourself!
You may feel guilty that you are angry about your role, you may be sad or anxious, or just plain exhausted. In order to deal with your feelings, it’s important to talk about them. Don’t keep your emotions bottled up, but find at least one person you trust to confide in.
Places you can turn for caregiver support include:
- Family members or friends who will listen without judgment
- Your church, temple, or other place of worship
- Caregiver support groups at a local hospital or online
- A therapist, social worker, or counselor
- National caregiver organizations
- Organizations specific to your family member’s illness or disability
