This week, Huffington Post included caregiving in a list of seven jobs associated with health risks. They reported that caregivers have the highest rate of depression, and 11% of caregivers have had a major depressive episode. Even more alarming, according to Caring.com, a survey revealed 25% of caregiver respondents suffered from depression. The national average reported by the CDC is 9%, so the incidence of depression among caregivers is more than twice the national average. Here at LTS we are trying to provide increased support to caregivers through WeCare+, with the goal of helping them manage stress and hence their feeling of helplessness.
Increasing knowledge is one step in addressing the occurrence of depression among caregivers. Understanding some of the emotional factors of caregiving is crucial to helping to manage potential episodes of depression. For example, it is normal for caregivers to experience frustration, anger, and guilt, but accepting this as part of the caregiving experience is difficult. Also, regularly seeing people you love in ill health can lead one to feelings of depression. It is especially difficult for caregivers who experience guilt when they take a break from caring for their loved ones. Furthermore, many caregivers have minimal knowledge of resources that can help them avoid or eliminate some of the stress involved with caregiving. These resources can address a range of caregiving issues, from emotional support to services and equipment that can help in the management of the care for their loved ones. Having the right level of support and information can contribute positively to managing stress and depression.
Knowing the symptoms of depression is an important step in managing the situation. Here is a useful fact sheet from the Family Caregiver Alliance about understanding, recognizing and treating caregiver depression: FCA Caregiving and Depression
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