Stroke Survivor Blog

Caregiver Stress is the emotional strain of caregiving for a loved one, or attending to the needs of a child or dependent adult. Sometimes demands may be so great that it’s difficult to slow down and take a deep breath, causing stress and worry about everything. Caregiving can have a major impact on the caregiver’s own health. Caregivers become so concerned about caring for their loved ones, that they may lose sight of their own health needs and overall well being.

Caregivers often report that it is difficult to look after their own health in terms of exercise, nutrition, and doctor’s visits, while juggling caregiving with full-time jobs and parenting.

In addition, caregivers are more likely to suffer from depression than their peers and be more likely to have other health problems like diabetes and heart disease than non-caregivers.

As a result of the many demands, caregivers often end up becoming overwhelmed, and feeling irritable, angry, anxious, isolated and suffer from Caregiver Stress.

The National Women’s Health Information Center describes these warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored:

• A feeling of being overwhelmed by responsibilities.
• Not getting enough sleep, or sleeping more than you should.
• Significant weight change.
• Constantly feeling tired.
• Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyed.
• Becoming easily angered or irritated.
• A persistent sense of worry or sadness.
• Having frequent headaches, or other aches and pains.
• Turning to drugs and alcohol.

1. Take one day at a time.
2. Find time for exercise most days of the week.
3. Prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine.
4. Try to get enough sleep and rest.
5. Find out about community caregiving and caregiver resources.
6. Ask for and accept help.
7. Stay in touch with friends and family. Social activities can help you feel connected and may reduce stress.
8. Look to your church or faith-based groups for support and help. Also ask others to pray for you.
9. Join a support group for caregivers in your situation. Many support groups can be found in the community or on the Internet.
10. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in saturated fat.
11. See your doctor for a checkup. Talk to her about symptoms of depression or sickness you may be having.
12. Take nutritional supplements.  One very good natural remedy for stress relief is PureCalm.  It balances emotions during times of pressure, and it promotes a calmed mood within minutes to help alleviate anxiety, stress and panic attacks.

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you.  Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” John 14:27  ~The Bible

(Spoken by Jesus the night before he was crucified)