4 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Depression

A guest post from Home Instead Senior Care

Depression – it’s an all too common side effect of caregiving. Research conducted by Home Instead Senior Care reveals that caregivers who hide their emotions are 2.3 times more likely than other caregivers to have experienced depression since becoming a caregiver.

Home Instead Senior Care provides resources to help family caregivers understand the many emotions of caregiving.

In addition, the Home Instead Senior Care network and caregiving expert Dr. Amy D’Aprix recommend the following process to help caregivers come to grips with the rigors of caregiving and avoid depression:<

1. Acknowledge feelings. It’s OK to feel conflicting emotions as a family caregiver, Dr. D’Aprix notes. “Think of it as a pie. Perhaps 30 percent of the pie is anger and 20 percent is guilt, but the rest of the pie is love. Seeing it as a pie helps caregivers realise that caregiving comes with a range of emotions, and that’s OK.”
2. Release feelings in a safe way. Journaling is one effective way that family caregivers can get their feelings out. Joining a support group or talking to a therapist or non-judgmental friend are others.
3. Manage the situation. Oftentimes there’s no other way around it: caregivers need help. If you can’t find that support with family, go to trusted friends, community leader or consider professional caregiving support.
4. Find solutions. “Make a list of the things you enjoy doing to reduce stress,” Dr. D’Aprix advises. “Reading, watching a favourite television show, exercising, visiting a museum, meeting friends and listening to music are all activities that many caregivers enjoy. Keep a list and build in mini breaks or bite-size getaways – 15 minutes at a time. It’s not all or nothing.”

For more information please log on to www.caregiverstress.com 

Home Instead Senior Care is Ireland’s trusted home care provider. Call today for a free consultation on 1890 930 847.

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