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Caring for the Caregiver: Difficult Emotions and Finding Support

November 13, 2014

Caregiver HealthFor an individual suffering from a disability, illness, or other condition that makes living independently a challenge, having a loved one provide home care is an incredible blessing. While it is a vital and valuable role, being a home caregiver is still much like other jobs in that there are ups and downs. Taking care of a family member or dear friend can be very fulfilling, both personally and professionally. Some times, however, providing at-home care can elicit many difficult emotions and create stress that affects a caregiver’s health.

At Best Home Care, we know that the wellbeing of a caregiver is a crucial part of home care. In order to prevent these emotions from developing into a serious health issue, a caregiver must first recognize and accept these feelings.

Common emotions for caregivers:

  • Guilt: You may feel guilty that you aren’t doing enough as a home caregiver to provide for your patient.
  • Grief: Providing care often comes with a number of losses, including time otherwise spent, a plan you had envisioned, or the loss that comes with caring for a terminally ill patient.
  • Burnout: The exhaustion that comes from being pulled in many different directions is common among caregivers who also work and provide for their family.
  • Resentment: You may be angry with other family members or friends for not doing more to support you or your patient.

These emotions often present themselves in the form of lack of sleep or appetite or an unwillingness to interact with others. Seek medical help immediately if you feel these emotions are negatively affecting your health or ability to provide quality home care.

It’s important for a home caregiver to understand that having these feelings is normal and help is available. Start combating tough emotions by sharing your feelings, both positive and negative, with others.

A caregiver may find emotional support from:

  • Family members or friends
  • Church or religious groups
  • A therapist or counselor
  • Community caregiver support groups

Know that you are not alone and that there are many resources to encourage and support you. At Best Home Care, we understand the stress home caregivers deal with every day and we work to help in any we can. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns about finding caregiver support.

 

A mother leaning back and relaxing on her adult daughter
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