An Epidemic of Stress In The U.S.
Caregivers Stress Increased in 2020
Think back to the beginning of 2020, when the epidemic of stress began and the pandemic started to hit home. Dealing with the sudden changes resulting from COVID-19, many began to face caregiver stress.
When businesses and schools closed, many people had to make significant changes and adjust in a short period. Some were laid off from work and isolated from family and friends.
Parents were faced with the challenge of how to continue to educate their children at home and work. Some parents also had to figure out how to balance their time by being a family caregiver for a senior.
Even though caregiving is gratifying, it can also be very stressful. Especially on top of the stress the pandemic brought about. Caregiver burnout has long been a challenge for caregivers, but now they faced a whole new set of stress and challenges brought on during a pandemic.
The saying “family comes first” is taken seriously by many people. So, when a family member needs help and assistance, most are eager to help and provide support and be there for their loved ones.
The Challenges of Caregiving
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Time Management
When it comes to loved ones who need extra support, it can take long hours each week to ensure a loved one has what they need. The extra time spent can cause a caregiver to feel isolated, drained, and overwhelmed.
Juggling different responsibilities such as raising children, working, and taking care of a household can leave little time for a caregiver to spend alone time for themselves. -
Health and Well-Being
With little time left for caring for a loved one, caregivers may lack caring for their own mental and emotional health. Some caregivers are consistently tired and are in desperate need of a day off. Caregiver self-care is essential. If a carer’s well-being is ignored, it could lead to another family member taking care of the caregiver.
FYI: If a caregiver feels like they need extra help, contact Alliance Medical and Home Care and discuss how Alliance can provide care in a loved ones’ home!
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Financial Stress
Managing another household can at times mean helping out financially. Carers may have to assist in purchasing prescriptions, providing transportation to doctors’ appointments, or hiring extra help for housekeeping or other household duties.
Any of these challenges can increase stress. So, how can a caregiver carry out their responsibility and find ways to manage their stress? .
Caregiving Tips to Manage Stress and Emotional Pain
Whether we are a caregiver or not, everyone should work hard to manage stress and emotional pain, especially after 2020.
There are a few signs of stress to look for:
- Constantly anxious or overwhelmed
- Sleeping too much or not enough
- Weight gain or loss
- No longer interested in the activities previously enjoyed
- Easily irritated or angry
If you notice some of these signs in yourself, one way to reduce stress is by asking for help! Ask other family members to help share the load or hire a Private Duty Caregiver.
In-home respite can provide one-on-one care for a loved one and lighten the load of a family caregiver. Respite care could also mean allowing loved ones to spend some time at an adult daycare center or another local program available for seniors.
Do a little research to find caregiving resources in your city or town. These can be a big help to helping you find the proper assistance for the loved one and caregiver.
Stretching Ahead to the Future
Even though caregivers may feel overwhelmed and stressed, keeping a positive attitude will help caregivers be thankful for the time spent with their loved ones and to care for and support them.
Accepting help and looking for ways to reduce stress will help a caregiver maintain a bright future outlook. A future when they can spend time with their loved one without the heavy burden of solely providing all the care a loved one needs.
Would You Like More Information?
For more information or to discuss different care options for a loved one, click the links below.
