How Stigma Impacts Caregivers
The CDC reports that nearly one in four of adults provide care or assistance to a person with a long-term illness or disability. In addition, about one in three individuals spend at least 20 hours a week caring for a loved one.
Caregivers often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. While caring for a child, spouse, or parent with a mental or physical illness, caregivers may be reluctant to seek help or their own mental health issues.
The Anti-Stigma Coalition will host a Facebook Live on Wednesday, February 15 from noon to 1 p.m. The topic is the State of Stigma: How Stigma Impacts Caregivers. A panel of experts will discuss the issue and encourage caregivers to move past stigma and be mentally healthy.
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A Cleveland Clinic and Parade Media survey revealed that 36% of caregivers suffer from depression and anxiety, which is 114% more than non-caregivers.
A Cleveland Clinic and Parade Media survey revealed that 36% of caregivers suffer from depression and anxiety, which is 114% more than non-caregivers.
The study revealed that 70% of caregivers acknowledge they need regular mental and emotional health breaks, but 56% of caregivers say it’s not realistic take time off for emotional and mental health.Jennifer Gunia, Director of Senior Services, Harmonia Collaborative Care. and a panelist for the February program, says that caregivers are reluctant about getting help for mental health challenges because they often put others first before themselves. Caregivers may in fact not even see themselves as a caregiver but just part of something they do for their loved ones.
“Some may feel they are looked at as weak if they were to ask for help in general, and more so if they asked for mental health help,” Gunia said. “Caregivers may think it’s one more thing for them to do. I have told caregivers if they don’t take care of themselves, they are no good to anyone else. Many caregivers are afraid to ask for help or do not even know where to turn for assistance.”
The Anti-Stigma Coalition will host a Facebook Live event titled: How Stigma Impacts Caregivers on Wednesday, February 15 from noon to 1 p.m. A panel of experts will discuss the issue and encourage caregivers to move past stigma and be mentally healthy. Panelists include Marianne Gerace, Volunteer, Alzheimer’s Association, WNY Chapter and former geriatrics nurse, Jennifer Gunia, Director of Senior Services, Harmonia Collaborative Care, and Stacie Dziwulski, Director of Family Peer Advocates, Mental Health Advocates.
According to Gunia, caregivers often suffer from high levels of stress and frustration, often times feeling guilty or helpless. Many caregivers have problems sleeping, even though they are exhausted. Caregiving often times can result in loss of selfidentity, self-esteem issues, and a constant state of worry and uncertainty.
Those caring for an individual with a mental illness can face additional challenges due to the stigma of mental illness and the stigma of NAMI Buffalo & Erie County has a Helpline (716-226-6264, option 1) for family members and caregivers of those living with mental illness. Calls are returned within 24 hours. The organization also offers online Family Support Groups for adult family members and caregivers of those living with mental illness at info@namibuffalony.org.
The Erie County Department of Senior Services shares that while caregiving is rewarding, caregivers may also feel overwhelmed, experience family conflict and financial burdens, stress from juggling responsibilities and loss of personal time and privacy. They offer a professional caregiver support counselor to meet with caregivers and, determine the best ways of dealing with them and provide support.