What are the signs of caregiver stress?
Caring for someone with cancer can be stressful. That stress can affect your body and your mind. The National Cancer Institute lists changes caregivers often notice:
- fatigue (feeling tired)
- a weaker immune system (poorer ability to fight off illness)
- sleep problems
- slower healing of wounds
- higher blood pressure
- changes in appetite or weight
- headaches
- anxiety, depression, or other mood changes
New stresses and daily demands often add to any health problems a caregiver already has. That's why caring for your own health matters. It gives you the strength to help others.
Pay special attention to signs of depression or anxiety. Stress can cause many different feelings or body changes. But if the changes last more than two weeks, talk to your doctor. Some caregivers realize they have become depressed and need help.
There are simple ways to protect your health. Stay up to date with your own checkups and screenings. Take your medicine as prescribed, try to eat healthy meals, and get enough rest. Find at least 15 to 30 minutes a day to exercise, which may help you feel better and manage stress. Talking with others and joining a support group can help too.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Caregiver Self-Care: Looking After Yourself
Know someone who needs this?
Plenty of people are looking for something like this and do not know where to start. If this would help a friend or someone you love, send it on — we have written an opening line so you do not have to stare at an empty message. You can change every word of it.
Your message is written and sent in your own email or messaging app — we never see who you send it to, and nothing is added to any list.