Caregiver Support

Supporting Caregivers

Emotions 

Emotions and the Caregiving Role

Chris Tarabochia
  • Identify and accept that strong emotional reactions are a part of caregiving.
  • Emotions can be positive or negative and can range from joy, hope, anger, depression to guilt.
  • As a caregiver you may not want to talk about or acknowledge negative feelings.
  • Fear and anxiety are common when presented with the fact that a loved one’s physical or mental condition is declining and thier safety is at risk.
  • Anxiety about the future is common, planning ahead can help reduce your anxiety.
  • Even with planning, frustration can occur.
  • Frustration may occur due to lack of cooperation from your loved one, your family and friends, the medical community and from putting in a lot of effort with very little in return.
  • Frustration may lead to resentment of the loved one, of family, friends, and professionals who do not help enough and of others who have free time and seem relatively unburdened.
  • Frustration and resentment are the foundation of anger.
  • Anger is one of the strongest emotions that caregivers may have to deal with.  Anger at your loved one, at the situation, at family and friends occurs most often.
  • Caregiving may increase your awareness of your own mortality making you feel more vulnerable.

1. Brandt, A. (2000) Eldercare Online. Overcoming negative emotions. Retrieved May 17, 2007 from http//:www.ec-online,net/Knowledge/Articles/emotions2.html