CAREGIVER STRESS CHECK
By: Dr. Sassy Sasson, DSW, LCSW
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aregivers who provide ongoing care to loved ones who are afflicted with a chronic illness may face multiple challenges and dilemmas in their capacity as caregivers. This phenomenon tends to induce stress in the caregiver – often, on a prolonged basis. Stress is viewed as a disparity between environmental demands and the capacity to cope with these demands, or, a state in which the body’s physiologic processes are out of balance and are not properly coordinated. Life events such as: the death of a spouse or close family member, divorce, separation, personal injury or illness, retirement and major change in financial status can be common triggers of stress.
Physical symptoms of stress such as: restlessness, pounding heart, weight change, headaches, digestive problems, insomnia and stiff joints may appear as a result of a stressful life event. Emotional symptoms such as: irritability, crying spells, mood swings, frustration, anxiety, change in appetite, nightmares and depression are often incurred by stress. Moreover, stress can also be manifested in other ways, such as memory loss, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, confusion, lethargy and disorganized thinking.
The multiple roles that the caregiver has to fill are sometimes incompatible with his/her ability to satisfy these demands. The care giver may respond to distress by: developing positive self-esteem, having a sense of control of his or her destiny, accepting the change as a challenge or by denying the event. Social support, yoga, physical activity and exercise can help reduce the stress.
We offer a variety of services to address these challenging issues. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your loved one’s personal situation, while developing a treatment plan that addresses the multiple issues you currently face as his/ her caregiver.
