Focus on Caregiver Mental Health Risks

How to make caregiver mental health a priority

women blowing on a dandelion

In a recent article, we discussed common mental health concerns for people with physical disabilities. A related, and sometimes overlooked concern, relates to the loved ones who care for them. Caregiver mental health can decline over time without the proper resources, support and self-care.

Caregiver mental health risks

The emotional burden placed on caregivers can be intense. Often, loved ones take on the responsibility of caring for a family member who has health concerns or physical disabilities. Depending on the circumstances, this caregiver role can be short–or long-term, and many people may not be fully prepared for what the role will entail.

The Family Caregiver Alliance estimates that 44 million Americans offer this type of unpaid care to their elderly family members or those with disabilities, and:

“Evidence shows that most caregivers are ill-prepared for their role and provide care with little or no support, yet more than one-third of caregivers continue to provide intense care to others while suffering from poor health themselves…

A substantial body of research shows that family members who provide care to individuals with chronic or disabling conditions are themselves at risk. Emotional, mental, and physical health problems arise from complex caregiving situations and the strains of caring for frail or disabled relatives.”

The Alliance goes on to cite several alarming statistics, including:

  • Up to 70 percent of caregivers show clinical signs of depression; and up to one-half of those individuals show signs of major depression.
  • For many caregivers, depression symptoms do not ease after their loved one is placed in a nursing home or care facility.
  • Women, as well as people caring for loved ones with dementia, show the most signs of depression and anxiety related to their caregiver role.
  • Caregivers are more prone to substance abuse than non-caregivers.

Those sobering statistics indicate a significant problem in our communities. What’s more, caregivers may be reluctant to seek help or care themselves.

Caregiver resources

If you are a caregiver, or if you know someone who is providing care to a loved one, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the strain of the often stressful role. The first step is to make use of the resources available to you, which include:

  • Respite care. A variety of organizations recognize that caregiving is often high stress and that caregivers need breaks. Here in Colorado, for example, The Colorado Respite Coalition connects caregivers with respite care options. Adult day centers, senior associations and others also offer respite programs.
  • Support groups. Joining a support group for caregivers can help you feel a lot less isolated. Sharing stories with others who are on a similar caregiver journey can help ease your emotional burden. This site lists several caregiver support groups by state.
  • Counseling. Whether you are struggling with caregiver depression, stress and anxiety, or you just need a listening ear, a good therapist can help you cope with your role.
  • Other support services. Many caregivers go above and beyond caring for the individual and also care for their loved ones’ homes, pets and more. Consider hiring out some of that work to a maid service, dog-walker, handyman or other service provider who can take some of the load off your plate.

Caregiver self-care

Focusing on self-care is perhaps the most important step you can take to prevent caregiver mental health risks. If you are not taking good care of your own physical and mental health, you can’t provide the best care for your loved one. Your health matters and you deserve a break, time to enjoy your life, the company of good friends and more.

So, what qualifies as self care? In short, it’s anything that helps you feel refreshed and helps you enjoy life more. Here are a few ideas to try:

  • Eat well. Make time to eat a balanced diet, and be sure to load up on fruits and vegetables. Good nutrition is the foundation for good mental and physical health.
  • Exercise. Take a long walk, go for a bike ride, or join a weekly Zumba class. Do something active that you enjoy. It not only supports your physical health, it can be an outlet for stress, and it gives you an hour or so of time dedicated 100 percent to you.
  • Visit the doctor. As you work to keep track of your loved one’s appointments and medications, do you neglect your own? Stay on track with your own preventive health appointments.
  • Do something fun. Take an art class, go to a concert, or pack a picnic and sit in the park. Fun can take many forms, so what you do is your choice. The point is to bring back a little relaxation, enjoyment and laughter into your life.
  • Meditate. Many studies have shown the positive effects of mindfulness and meditation. Even five quiet minutes each day can make a difference. Don’t know where to start? Try a free meditation or download an app like Calm.com.

That list is just a starting point for self-care–there are many other activities and techniques you can try to boost your sense of well-being. The point is to make yourself a priority. As a caregiver, of course, your loved one’s health is top-of-mind, but be sure to place yourself on the priority list.

About the Author:

Scott Kohner MSW, LCSW is a psychotherapist in Denver, CO working with individuals, couples and families. To learn more about Scott, visit www.ScottKohner.com.


1800wheelchair is committed to helping those who help others. Full time caregiving is an essential component to the aging, elderly, and disabled, here are some tips to coping with the stresses.

Helpful Resources for the Aging

This article is brought to you by 1800wheelchair; we offer power wheelchairs, mobility scooters, & walkers.

Aging is a part of life that nobody can avoid. Whether it’s yourself or a family member, it is important to remember there are resources available to help target almost any obstacle or question. An aging person should be treated with dignity and respect. Below is a useful resource guide targeted to help anyone with questions.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia

National Institute on Aging — Information on Alzheimer’s Disease including symptoms, general information, coping, and treatment of the disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center– Information and different ways to rate cognitive and functional performance related to Alzheimer Disease.

Memory and Aging Center — A list of dementia resources available including websites, books, articles, and videos.

Alzheimer’s Association — Learn about Alzheimer’s Disease and recent news on it.

Alzheimer’s , Dementia, and Driving — Information, resources, and support on Alzheimer’s Disease.

Assistive Technology and Aging

Sage Advice Information and help with assistive technology.

CODI — Information on assistive technology resources for people with disabilities.

Intellectual Disabilities, Aging & Dementia — Information and help for people with disabilities, including research and training.

Caregiver Resources

The Family Caregiver Handbook — Information and help to find caregiver support and resources based out of Massachusetts.

Caregiver Resources— A collection of various links for caregivers on topics from resource materials to finances.

Patient/ Caregiver Resources— Guidance and a list of websites on how to find the proper help after receiving a diagnoses.

Consumer Protection & the Elderly

Elder Consumer Protection Program– A progressive and educational program for professionals on general and legal topics for the elderly.

Internet Resources for Gerontology — Information on The Elderly Abuse and Exploitation Project.

Disability and Aging

Aging Resources Available at the Center for Disabilty Resources Library– Resources available for elderly with disabilities.

Disability Programs — Information for people who are on disability through social security.

Elder Law

Elder Law– A resource page of links of elder law information and research guides.

Aging with Dignity– A medical directive in 20 languages giving the patient 5 wishes the elderly patient wants to have made.

Older People Work Longer for Less– A resource available that helps older people claim their rights and challenge discrimination.

International Federation on Aging — Information on an international non-governmental organization who believes in positive change for older people throughout the world.

Exercise and Fitness

The Age Antidote Information on the effects exercise has on the brain.

Nursing Homes

A Place for Mom— Local Senior Living Advisors offer personalized guidance at no charge to caregivers as they search for the right senior care for a loved one.

Listing U.S. nursing homes and their quality ratings.

Family Resource Center– A list of skilled nursing home resources.

Nursing Homes– Resources on nursing homes and different units available.

Before Moving into a Nursing Home– An article about what you should consider before moving into s nursing home.

Resource Center on Aging — A center providing information and education on the elderly and nursing home resources.

Mental Health and Aging

Mental Health and Aging– A resource for mental illness and the aging web links.

Center for Mental Health and Aging– A center for education, testing, and disseminating information on the aging and mental health.

Mental Health & Aging Project– A program offering education, training, and consults for clinicians.

Center for Mental Health and Aging– A center dedicated on improving lives of older people living in the community.

Transportation and Mobility

Safe Mobility for Older Persons– Information on effects elderly driving has on society and the negative consequences for older people.

Healthy Aging Column- Transportation for the Aging Population — Information on the increased number of traffic accidents caused by the elderly.

Pedestrian Mobility Aids for the Elderly– Information on the elderly and how important it is to have mobility.

Workforce & Aging

Aging & Work– Information on the aging in the workforce.

Workers Affected by Chronic Conditions: How can workplace policies and programs help?– An article on workplace policies and chronic conditions and the effects on elderly people.

AGS Foundation for Health in Aging — Resources for the elderly in the workplace.

Programs— A program from the School of Labor & Industrial Relations dealing with laws against discrimination of the elderly in the workplace.

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