Care Giving & You: Where Is The Line?
Are you, or someone you know attempting to take on all the responsibility?
Many people care for a family member or friend with a long-term health condition, disability or aging-related problem. Despite the many benefits ranging from financial savings to concern for the well-being of care recipients, taking on such responsibilities can have consequences for caregivers. In particular, those who care for their child or spouse are more likely than others to experience caregiver stress.
Depression
A general feeling of temporary unhappiness at life trying to break your spirit and causing the inability to fulfill responsibilities.
Anxiety
Feeling worried, uneasy, or nervous about what the future holds for the caregiver and the one being cared for.
Irritability
Feeling overworked, exhausted, or unappreciated resulting in mood swings, irritability and hostility or physical problems such as headaches and poor digestion.
Denial
Trouble coming to terms with the condition of a person being cared for, or denying that more help may be needed when a loved one can no longer be cared for adequately.
Social withdrawal
Avoiding social interactions and pulling more inside oneself due to too being “too stretched” and exhausted to enjoy life to its fullest.