The body and mind go into fight and flight mode when they hear of a loved one who now needs their help around the clock.
You might find a caregiver always alert, ready to respond to their beloved. They worry constantly, and their stress levels remain perpetually high.
35% of care providers who’re looking after an ill member find it difficult to make time for themselves. 29% struggle with stress management, and another 29% struggle with juggling work and family difficulties.
The Impact Of Stress
Even those who keep a calm façade admit to struggling with anxiety and stress. This is why therapy is critical for caregivers.
They are so used to putting up a strong front that they ignore their feelings and never voice their fears. They are afraid to break down and not be strong for their families.
In time, these mental stressors can also begin to impact their body and physical health. High blood pressure, cholesterol, as well as lack of self-care can make their health deteriorate quickly. This is called the caregiver stress syndrome.
Benefits Of Therapy
Therapy can help carers who have grown alone, stressed, nervous, depressed, or lack social support. Caregivers who do not take care of themselves may develop burnout and become vulnerable to mental and emotional discomfort as well as physical health concerns.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a kind of therapy that takes place in an individual or group setting. It can support and motivate caregivers to take care of themselves, satisfy their needs, and continue their job.
It provides them with a safe space to communicate and talk about themselves and their journey.
Therapy can assist a person in becoming more capable of coping with sorrow, stress, and solitude.
Exercise And Self-Care
It is important for caregivers to detach and do something for themselves during the day to help them recharge, and exercise is a great option.
I speak from personal experience. My wife Angela had a brain tumor. She died after a five-year-long fight with glioblastoma multiforme.
I used to be a pilot, but now I’m motivated to make a difference and be the guiding voice that I lacked while caring for my ailing wife. I am now a full-time writer and advocate for cancer research. I recommend you read books on being a caregiver, including my books, ‘A Husband’s Guide to Hands-On Caregiving’ and ‘Are You Prepared to be a Caregiver.’
I talk about how to support for caregivers of cancer patients and how to prepare to be caregivers. I share my real-life experience to help husbands like me and other male caregivers overcome their challenges. Visit my website to learn more or purchase my books here.