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Caregivers & Depression

Caregivers face a multitude of challenges, both physical and psychological, which depend on the level of care being given and the disposition of the patient or family member being cared for. Caregiver stresses may incite depression.

  1. Definition

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, major depression is a disorder that can affect the mind and body. It can cause symptoms like feelings of frustration and worthlessness, changes in sleeping habits and back pain.

    Increased Risk

    • The Family Caregivers Alliance states the essentials of caregiving do not cause depression, but some of the situations that accompany it, and the feelings they elicit, can put caregivers at increased risk.

    Stresses

    • Frequent crying, feelings of isolation and frustration, exhaustion, lack of sleep and other factors that caregiving can involve can result in depression, according to the Family Caregivers Alliance.

    Prevalence

    • As many as half of caregivers have reported experiencing depressive disorders or symptoms, the Family Caregivers Alliance states, with the majority of those caring for people with Alzheimer's and dementia.

    Recommendations

    • The National Institute of Mental Health recommends that caregivers and others who think they may be suffering from depression do things to mitigate it, such as setting realistic goals, participating in other activities and breaking large tasks into smaller.

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