Strategies to Reduce Caregiver Depression
Several critical medical issues can be contributing to how you are feeling. Make an appointment with your primary care provider. They can then determine what is best for you.
There is a range of therapeutic options that can be very helpful for these types of symptoms. Please don't suffer in silence.
It would seem to be a given that many caregivers would be "depressed,” given all they are facing as a family caregiver of a loved one with an illness like Alzheimer's disease. Indeed, we understand this feeling, but it is critical to separate the expected sadness from the effects of Alzheimer's disease and the emotionally and physically debilitating illness that "Major Depression" is in its worst form.
We advise you to follow your personal providers' advice, but these general recommendations should give you some additional strategies.**
Take Your Oxygen First
The message of “Take Your Oxygen First” is front and center here. There is simply no way to continue as an effective caregiver if your emotional state is unstable and unhealthy.
Face Your Feelings Then Share your Feelings
Consider attending a support group for family caregivers. This tried-and-true method of sharing everyday experiences is a proven stress reducer. And, in addition to meeting some new people who "get it," you may pick up a few ideas about challenging situations you are facing along the way. IF groups aren't your thing, consider a private counselor or therapist.
Ask for Help
Isolation increases stress. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression — extreme sadness, trouble concentrating, apathy, hopelessness, thoughts about death, it seems natural to stay by yourself and away from the world around us. But that is a mistake! Instead, be sure to talk to a medical professional or counselor AND confide in at least one person who understands your situation.
Sometimes you must reach out, ask for, and accept help so you can get some respite, "me" time. You deserve it. Plus, your ailing family member might benefit from someone else's company. You can often find short-term respite from among family, friends, or volunteers. Make a list of things others could do. Even faraway relatives and friends can manage specific tasks.
Longer-term respite is often available in assisted living residences, board-and-care homes, and adult day centers.
Connect with Friends
Getting together regularly with friends and relatives can keep negative emotions at bay.
It Takes a Village
Learn about and call on community resources. Each county has an Area Agency on Aging for government services for the aged. These agencies tend to be all-knowing about eldercare resources, with some being needs-based and some based on age and dependency. They can also direct you to a private hire geriatric care manager to coordinate all aspects of your loved one's care.
**Please seek professional advice if you are having difficulty and feeling anxious or depressed.
