How Stigma Impacts Caregivers

Feb 9, 2023

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 [email protected].

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.

Additional Resources

 

Erie County Department of Senior Services

716-858-8526 | [email protected]

Caregiving resources available in Erie County

WWW3.erie.gov/seniorservices/caregiver-support-groups

Caregiving services are also available in Niagra County

NiagaraCounty.com

MANAGING CAREGIVER STRESS WITH THE MAYO CLINIC

The Mayo Clinic offers these tips to help manage caregiver stress:

Accept help.

Be prepared with a list of ways that others can help you, and let the helper choose what he or she would like to do.

Join a support group.

A support group can provide validation and encouragement, as well as problem-solving strategies for difficult situations.

Set realistic goals.

Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine.

Set personal health goals.

For example, set goals to establish a good sleep routine, find time to be physically active on most days of the week, eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Focus on what you are able to provide.

It’s normal to feel guilty sometimes but understand that no one is a “perfect” caregiver.

Get connected.

Find out about caregiving resources in your community.

See your doctor.

Get recommended vaccinations and screenings. Make sure to tell your doctor that you’re a caregiver.

Seek social support.

Make an effort to stay well-connected with family and friends who can offer nonjudgmental emotional support.

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