Caregivers deserve care too!

When someone you love becomes ill all of a sudden, everyone life changes! For someone diagnose with a mental health illness, not only does the person suffer but those who are caregivers as well.

There are 60 million Americans who provide unpaid care to a family member, friend, or neighbor who has a physical or mental illness. This number is expected to increase over the next few years as the baby boomer generation ages into their senior years.

Being a caregiver comes with difficulties but can be a very rewarding experience. If you are a caregiver, it is important to be educated not only on how to help the person you care for, but also yourself.

Caregivers are more likely to have physical and mental health illnesses, a higher financial burden, and require work accommodations. On a more positive side those who are caregivers report that they learn new skills and are able to strengthen their relationship with others by being more sympathetic.

The nature of being a caregiver is to be concerned about the health and wellness of others, but it should not come at the expense of self-care. It is important to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating right, exercising, taking time out for yourself, and seeking professional help if needed.

Source:

Obama, B, Presidential Proclamation - National Family Caregivers Month Nov 14, 2014

Schulz and Sherwood. "Physical and Mental Health Effects of Family Caregiving".

US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. 2008. 108:23-27. Table 2