More than half of the carers asked (56%) are dealing with depression and 57% have put off treatment for their own health issues due to their need to provide care. Over four-fifths (81%) of carers of children feel lonely. 41% feel lonely sometimes and 40% often or always feel lonely.
Caregiving is rewarding but stressful But the demands of caregiving also cause emotional and physical stress. It's common to feel angry, frustrated, worn out or sad. And it's common to feel alone. Caregiver stress can put caregivers at risk of changes in their own health.
As a caregiver, you may have someone dependent on you 24 hours a day. Doing the activities you love may become more difficult. You may have a great deal of information thrown at you all at once. You may have to administer medications.
Isolation – Caregivers can often feel cut off from the outside world. So much time and energy is spent caring for someone else, caregivers often don't have time to take care of themselves. If you start to feel isolated, reach out to close friends and family to see if they are able to help.
Caregiver burden refers to the strain a caregiver experiences as a result of caring for a family member or loved one that is chronically ill, disabled, or elderly.
Dealing with Emotional Stress and Burnout Emotional stress and burnout are significant challenges faced by caregivers. The demands of caregiving, coupled with balancing work, personal relationships, and other aspects of life, can lead to increased stress and feelings of being overwhelmed.
What do caregivers need most? Listen attentively. Really listen to what they have to say. Don't tell horror stories. Don't be judgmental. Ask what they need. Offer the gift of your time. Give your friend space. Bring food. Offer to take your friend out—and help arrange respite care.
7 Essential Caregiver Skills Compassion. Caregiving is about more than simply offering a helping hand. Selflessness. Caregiving is a selfless profession. Patience. Patience is a virtue, especially for caregivers. Time Management and Organization. Reliability. Communication. Problem-Solving.
Access to reliable resources and information is crucial for effectively caring for their loved ones. From understanding medical conditions to accessing community services and financial assistance, caregivers expressed the need for easily accessible information tailored to their specific circumstances and needs.
Emotional support is crucial for caregivers, as it can help them manage stress, cope with difficult emotions and prevent burnout. This support can come from friends, family or professional counselors who provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for caregivers to express their feelings and concerns.