As the population ages, non-healthcare professionals are taking on more and more caregiving responsibilities. In the United States, about one in three adults act as informal caregivers for other adults. In England, there are around 5.4 million people who provide unpaid care for a friend or family member. With these numbers, it is no wonder that stress emerges in the life of a carer. So, what is caregiver stress and how can we manage it? Why and when does caregiver stress appear? These are just some of the questions we are going to asnwer in today’s article.
Firstly, what is a caregiver?
Although we have talked about this in a previous article, this one here, we will give a short definition again. Anyone who helps another person in need, such as a sick spouse or partner, a disabled child, or an elderly relative, is referred to as a caregiver. Family members who are providing active care for an older adult, however, frequently do not self-identify as “caregiver.” Caregivers can get the support they require by acknowledging their role in the family. If you want to learn more about the job of a professional caregiver, please see the article here.
The downside of having such a career: caregiver stress
Being a caregiver is indeed very rewarding. Being there for a loved one when they need you is a core value and something that most caregivers want to offer. But it’s almost certain that roles and feelings will change. It is normal to feel irate, frustrated, worn out, lonely, or depressed. Caregiver stress, or the mental and physical strain of providing care, is widespread. Stressed-out caregivers may be more susceptible to changes in their own health. The following are risk factors for caregiver stress:
having less formal education than necessary
cohabitation with the person receiving care
depression
social isolation
struggling with money
speding extra hours at your caregiving job
lack of coping mechanisms and trouble solving issues
What is caregiver stress?
The emotional and physical strain of caregiving is what causes caregiver stress. People who are not caregivers report much lower levels of stress than do caregivers. Numerous caregivers offer assistance or are “on call” almost constantly. This can occasionally translate into having little time for work, other family members, or friends. The amount of care that their elderly, ill, or disabled family member or client requires can leave some caregivers feeling overburdened.
Although it can be very difficult, providing care has its benefits. Being able to look after someone in need is satisfying. But you must keep in mind that in order to care for your loved one, you must take care of yourself.
Who can get caregiver stress?
Anyone can experience caregiver stress, but more female caregivers than male caregivers report experiencing stress and other health issues. Additionally, some women are more likely to experience health issues as a result of caregiver stress, such as those who take care of a family member who requires ongoing medical attention and supervision. Compared to those who care for people with other conditions, caregivers of people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are more likely to experience health issues and depression.
Moreover, women who care for their spouses are twice as likely to develop heart disease, have high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol than women who care for their parents or children. Women who care for others may also be less likely to undergo routine screenings, get insufficient sleep, or engage in regular physical activity.
What symptoms and signs of caregiver stress are there?
Many different things can cause caregiver stress. For instance, you might feel helpless one second and enraged and frustrated the next. Giving medications can lead to mistakes. Or you might start engaging in unhealthy habits like smoking or abusing alcohol.
Other manifestations and symptoms are:
feeling overwhelmed
feeling isolated, alone, or abandoned by others
sleeping excessively or insufficiently
substantial weight gain or loss
being generally exhausted
losing enthusiasm for activities you once loved
being prone to anger or irritation easily
having frequent anxiety or sadness
frequent headaches or body aches
How does caregiver stress affect your health?
You can benefit from some stress because it aids in your ability to adapt to and face challenges. However, sustained stress of any kind, including caregiver stress, can have negative health effects.
Caregiver stress can have a variety of effects, including:
Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety and depressive symptoms are more prevalent in women who provide care than in men. Depression and anxiety also increase your risk for heart disease and stroke, among other illnesses.
Weak Immune System
Stressed caregivers may experience immune system deterioration and spend more days ill with the flu or cold than non-caregivers. Immunizations like flu shots may also be less effective if you have a weakened immune system. The recovery period following surgery might also be extended.
Obesity
More women than men gain weight as a result of stress. Obesity increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, among other health issues.
Increased risk of chronic illnesses
Anxiety and depressive symptoms are more prevalent in women who provide care than in men. Depression and anxiety also increase your risk for heart disease and stroke, among other illnesses.
Issues with attention or short-term memory
Short-term memory and focus issues are more common in caregivers of spouses with Alzheimer’s disease.
Techniques for reducing caregiver stress
Even the most resilient person can become overburdened by the emotional and physical demands of providing care. Utilizing the numerous resources and tools that are readily available to assist you in caring for your loved one is crucial, for this reason. Do not forget that you cannot care for others if you do not take care of yourself.
In order to reduce the stress you can:
Get help
Have a list of ways that people can assist you, and then let them choose what they would like to do. For instance, a friend might offer to go for weekly walks with the person you’re caring for. Alternatively, a friend or relative might be able to cook for you, pick up your groceries, or run errands for you.
Concentrate on what you can offer
Although it’s normal to occasionally feel guilty, realize that nobody is a “perfect” caregiver. Recognize that you are always doing your best and choosing the best course of action.
Set attainable objectives
Large tasks should be broken down into manageable, solitary steps. Make lists, set priorities, and create a daily schedule. Start declining requests that put a strain on you, like hosting holiday meals.
Get in touch
Learn about the community resources available for caregiving. There are numerous communities that offer classes on the disease that your loved one has. There may be caregiving services available, including housekeeping, meal delivery, and transportation.
Sign up for a support group
A support group can offer affirmation, inspiration, and techniques for dealing with challenging circumstances. Support group members can relate to what you might be going through. Making deep friendships can also be facilitated by joining a support group.
Get social support
Make an effort to maintain close relationships with loved ones and friends who can provide compassionate emotional support. Every week, set aside some time to connect, even if it’s just for a quick walk with a friend.
Plan your own health objectives
For instance, make it a point to find time to exercise most days of the week, develop a healthy eating plan, and drink lots of water. Many caregivers have trouble falling asleep. Long-term poor sleep can have negative effects on one’s health. Consult your doctor if you’re having trouble sleeping well.
Go to the doctor
Obtain the recommended screenings and immunizations. Please let your doctor know that you are a caregiver. Don’t be afraid to mention any worries or symptoms you may be experiencing.
At the end of the day, there is one thing that you have to keep in mind: you are not alone in this. If you’re anything like most caregivers, you find it difficult to ask for assistance. Unfortunately, having this mindset can make you feel alone, impatient, and even depressed. Use the resources available to you locally if you want to avoid struggling alone as a caregiver. And remember, your job is one of the most valuable one.
If you liked our article, don’t forget to have a look on our blog for more resources and also check out our available positions. We look forward to hearing from you!
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