Caregiving can take you through a rollercoaster of emotions, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Each year, over 34 million Americans provide care to a loved one over the age of 50. Being a caregiver can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also feel isolating and exhausting because you are giving so much time and energy to your loved one. That’s why caregiver support groups are so helpful. These groups exist to provide a space to connect with others, feel supported, and help reduce your stress from caregiving. Caregiver support groups help you:
Feel Connected
Spending day after day looking after the same person may cause a sense of disconnect from other family, friends, and acquaintances. The people you do interact with may not understand what you’re going through. Caregiver support groups provide you with a network of people who are in similar situations and will not only validate your feelings but offer comfort and a sense of community.
Reduce Stress
Over 70% of adults admit to feeling stressed every day. Stress is a part of life, but it shouldn’t take over. A build-up of frustrations and feelings is normal, but at some point, those need to be released and discussed. Caregiver support groups are the perfect opportunity to de-stress. You may feel like you’re the only person in the world facing the challenges of caregiving, but you can find comfort in knowing that there are others who are experiencing similar situations. You can even discuss coping mechanisms with each other to see what others are doing to manage their stress.
Take Back Control
It’s easy to lose yourself when your life revolves around someone else. Taking the time out of your day to do something good for your mental health is a great way to take back some control over your life. If you’ve felt mentally drained or depressed, participating in a caregiver support group could make a world of difference in your mood. These groups ensure that you have the chance to take a break, express your feelings, and find new ways to cope.
Improve Caregiver Skills
People are complicated and taking care of a loved one is successful through trial and error. Joining a support group offers you the opportunity to share ideas with people in the same situation. Are you taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s who experiences Sundowners Syndrome? Are you having a hard time finding a way to help them relax? Support groups are the perfect place to ask for advice and see what has worked for other caregivers.
There a variety of forums, blogs, and Facebook groups where you can gain an immediate community online, which is perfect in this time of social distancing. Caregiver support groups can also be dedicated to specific types of caregivers, such as those taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. At Evergreen Senior Living in Chillicothe, we offer an Alzheimer’s support group that meets on the third Monday of every month. No matter your struggle, there is a group for you. If you have any questions, check out our website or give us a call today at (309) 274-5440.
