Caregiver Stress
There may be multiple doctors appointments and referrals, medications and medications changes, new symptoms, family time management, working full- or part-time, money challenges and so much more that can really take a toll. While you may feel that you have to just push through the stressful feelings and situations, it is important to take a step back and learn how to cope with the stress in a healthy and skillful way.
We recommend these great resources as a place to start!
- How Stress Management Leads to Stress Reduction, Goodtherapy.org
- Stress Management Starts with Understanding Why You’re Stressed, Goodtherapy.org
- Life Transitions, Change and Healthy Stress Management, Goodtherapy.org
- Stress Management, webmd.com
- Stress Management and Emotional Health, my.clevelandclinic.org
- Living with a Rare Condition: The Effect on Mental Health, rare disease.uk
Respite Care and Room to Breathe
Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers. Whether it is just one morning or a few days a week, care can be provided in-home by healthcare professionals. While it may be hard to take a break for your benefit, respite care can also benefit the person you’re caring for by providing them with variety, stimulation, and a welcome change of routine.
There are many specialized agencies that can be utilized, insurance coverage and costs of the services may be your biggest hurdle. Medicare, Medicaid and long-term insurance policies may help cover the costs; check your policy or speak with your insurance specialist to find your out-of-pocket costs.
If funds are a challenge, you may be able to find relief with faith-based groups, family, friends or neighbors who are willing to help.