Caregiver Depression and You

So many caregivers report feeling depression along with stress and feelings of being incredibly overwhelmed. Often this has to do with the demands of caregiving taking a toll on you both physically and emotionally. Understanding what’s going on is the first step, but it’s actually finding a solution that matters. Get honest with yourself about what’s happening so you can make progress.

Depression Shows up with and Without Reasons

There may be some valid reasons you can point to that cause depression for you. Not having time for yourself is a huge source of depression. Caregiving also takes up quite a bit of your energy, leaving you more vulnerable to depression and to other difficult feelings. Feeling isolated and alone doesn’t help. But remember, too, that you can experience depression for no “valid” reason at all. Some people are more prone to depression and that’s still okay.

Get to Know the Signs

When you know the general signs of depression you can act more quickly to stop it. Remember, though, that depression doesn’t show up exactly the same way in every single person. So what looks like depression for you may be different than what is in this list. Most people describe feeling sad, hopeless, or worthless. Those are terrible feelings and they just make everything worse. You might also have trouble thinking or solving problems, though. Some people report feeling tired or listless all the time. You might stop eating or you might eat constantly. Physical symptoms, like stomach pain or headaches, are also really common.

Take Action if You Think You’re Experiencing Depression

The most important thing for you to keep in mind about depression as a caregiver is that you need to take action as soon as you suspect something is wrong. Talk to your doctor right away and determine what might be contributing. For some people medication is the answer, but for others making lifestyle changes helps immensely. The sooner you do something about what you’re feeling, the sooner you’ll be experiencing relief.

Being a caregiver is difficult work. It’s also a labor of love. In order to continue to be there for your elderly family member for as long as she needs you, it’s important that you pay attention to how you’re feeling and your overall well-being. Depression can be treated and you can find ways to keep it from interfering with your time as a caregiver.

If you are considering caregivers in Dublin, OH for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Lantern West Health today at 614-594-7474.