10 Symptoms of Caregiver Stress
Information provided by the Alzheimer’s Association and adapted by KaeBeth Rosenberg & Barbara M. Goodearl. Used by Permission: Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Michigan Chapter
As a caregiver, if you experience some of these signs of stress on a regular basis, make time to consult a physician or therapist.
- Denial about the disease/illness and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed. “I know Mom will get better.“ Denial can be a great friend when the caregiver can’t handle facing the inevitable and needs time to process and grow used to the situation.
- Anger at the person with the disease or others, anger that no cure exists, and anger that others don’t understand what’s going on. “If he asks me that question one more time, I’ll scream.” Perhaps it’s time to face the fact that this anger is coming from a great love and concern for the family member.
- Social withdrawal from friends, and activities that once brought you pleasure. “I don’t care about getting together with the neighbors anymore.” May we suggest getting back in touch with friends and accepting their love and help.
- Anxiety about facing another day, and what the future may hold. “What happens when he needs more care than I can provide?” It’s time to talk to an expert (social worker, therapist, physician, or organization) who can help you plan for the days to come. Hospice care may be an option.
- Depression that starts to break your spirit and affects your ability to cope. “I don’t care anymore.“Value yourself and realize how vital you are to the caregiving team. It’s important to take care of yourself.
- Exhaustion that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. “I’m too tired to do this.” See #5.
- Sleeplessness caused by an unending list of concerns. “What if she wanders out of the house, or falls and hurts herself?” Install a baby monitor or geri-monitor alarm to alert you immediately of any wandering. Have someone take the night shift to give you a break.
- Irritability that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and reactions. “Leave me alone!” Take that time alone. Consult a professional.
- Lack of concentration that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. “I was so busy, I forgot about our appointment.” Take good notes, keep a calendar, get help.
- Health problems that begin to take their toll, both mentally and physically. “I can’t remember the last time I felt good.“
“I just don’t have time to take care of myself.” If this sounds like something you think or say to yourself, you may be putting yourself and your health at risk.
Remember to visit your physician regularly. Be attuned to what your body is telling you. Your exhaustion, stress, sleeplessness and changes in appetite or behavior should be taken seriously. Ignoring these symptoms can cause your own health to decline.
Accept help from others. You simply can’t do everything. Trying to handle it all yourself will only lead to burnout, depression, and resentment toward the person in your care.
Talk to others about your feelings. You may think that no one understands what you’re going through, but holding in your feelings will only make you feel isolated and emotionally neglected.
For helpful information, please refer to our article “10 Ways to be a Healthy Caregiver”.
