As a caregiver, you play a major role in easing an elderly relative or friend out of depression. Your emotional support, patience and compassion are essential to bringing joy and some sense of fulfillment back to their lives. The long hours and constant support expected from being a caregiver may, however, take its toll on you. At times, the depressed elderly you are tending to may be hostile, restless and irritable. You may then feel that you have failed to make your depressed elderly relative/friend ‘happy’. This in turn could evoke emotions of guilt, shame and resentment in you, causing you to experience caregiver stress.

Are you experiencing caregiver stress?

If you start experiencing any of the following, then you could be suffering from caregiver stress.

• Feel isolated and alone: You feel that no one understands what you do and you do not feel appreciated for your efforts.

• Start to distance yourself from a depressed elderly relative or friend: A depressed elderly person’s constant low moods and negative feelings can make you feel depressed as well. You may react by being indifferent to your depressed loved one’s needs. At times, you may even feel like giving up.

• Begin to feel resentment towards your depressed relative, friend, or patient. You may feel that you have sacrificed other priorities in your life such as spending more time with other relatives and friends, or learning a hobby or going out during the weekends.

• Get mad easily: You are restless and easily agitated. Little things make you angry.

• Feel exhausted: You feel lethargic often but you are unable to sleep well.

Caring for your self: 5 tips for caregivers

As a caregiver, you would need to understand your own needs and limitations and find time to care for yourself. Take a break from your daily caregiving activities and ask other family members to assist you when you need a break. Breaking the daily routine from caregiving will benefit you and your loved ones.