Caregiver Stress Causes

Stress from caregiving is usually caused by the caregiver being so consumed with care given to the person that they fail to take care of themselves. Caregiver stress is a constant state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion. It happens when the caregiver does more than they're capable of, and don't get the help they require either financially or physically.

Three Main Types of Stress

There are three main types of stress which can cause caregiver stress. If caregiver stress isn’t recognized, then it can become stress burnout. Below are the three types of caregiver stress and their explanations:

• Physical stress: Physical stress is caused by caregivers from regularly lifting cumbersome or heavy medical equipment. It could be wheelchairs, adaptive equipment or even the person who is being cared for. If proper lifting techniques aren't used, it can cause injury to knees, backs, and other joints and muscles. Plus, sometimes there's an awkwardness in position when trying to move someone which can add additional strain. Physical strain can happen from a lack of sleep from tending to the needs of the loved one.
• Emotional stress: Emotional stress can give a person the same physical symptoms as physical stress. This type of stress is caused by worrying about the lack of time, money, or other reasons. Guilt can occur from trying to be a caregiver plus take care of the needs of a significant other or family members. Caregivers often feel as they are alone because of the loss of friends and not enough family help. This can cause an emotional roller coaster which can affect the health of the caregiver.
• Mental stress: Mental stress is different than emotional stress. Worrying about everything which needs to be accomplished during the day and even into the night can cause mental stress. The caregiver must worry about giving medication correctly and on time, doctor appointments, and other concerns when caregiving. Plus, they can be worried and scared about what the future will bring concerning the care of their loved one.

Improving the stress situation

There are ways to improve the feelings that caregiver stress causes. First, decide if the emotions that are being experienced are typical or are caused by too much pressure. If the feelings are one of caregiver stress, consult a doctor. The doctor can recommend support groups, counseling, coping methods, or even medication.

Next, many caregivers suffer from stress because they don't take care of themselves. Start eating better and exercise regularly, and get lots of quality sleep. Plus, also avoid using tobacco and alcohol, or at least if it is being used, cut back on the amount. Find everything that can be read about the medical condition of the family member. Find out what kind of treatment is being offered and any side effects that the treatment may develop. This gives a sense of control to the situation and what is to be expected. Information can be found through the internet, the doctor, support groups, and libraries.

Plus, keep organized so demands on time can be handled. Usually, a caregiver has other responsibilities as well as being a caregiver. Make a schedule, take time off, visit with friends, hire a professional caregiver to give respite relief, the caregiver needs to take time to recharge.

Home health care services can provide nursing, physical therapy, and light housekeeping. There is nothing wrong when taking help when it’s needed. We here at Right at Home Smithtown are professionally trained caregivers. We can give respite care, nonmedical care, and provide companionship. Caregivers need to take care of themselves, so they can provide what's necessary for their loved one. We take care of the caregivers. Call us today or contact us online.