Caregivers for individuals experiencing mental health and substance use issues play a pivotal role in providing support and assistance. A disconcerting 8.4 million and counting Americans take on the role of caregivers for adults facing emotional or mental health conditions. They serve as significant supporters in the well-being of their loved ones, often facing unexpected hurdles in the process. This responsibility comes with its own set of challenges, both emotional and economic.
Unplanned Emotional and Economic Impacts of Caregiving
The average mental health caregiver, typically around 54 years old, provides about 32 hours of care per week over a 9-year period of caregiving. In comparison to the typical family caregiver, mental health caregivers spend more hours per week and more years on average addressing the needs of their loved one.
Research indicates that mental health caregivers experience higher levels of stress and burden, coupled with a pervasive sense of not having enough time for self-care. The demanding nature of caregiving, combined with the emotional challenges, can create a sense of isolation for the caregiver. The first national survey of mental health caregivers in the United Sates, conducted in 2016, highlighted these challenges.
Many family members who have a relative with a serious mental illness (SMI) report feeling stigmatized by association, especially if they live with that family member.Â
This unwarranted social stigmatization leads to feelings of blame, failure, and loneliness.
The impact of caregiving extend beyond emotional and physical aspects. Caregivers often bear substantial out-of-pocket expenses related to medications, therapy sessions, and other medical necessities. Individuals receiving mental health care often rely on family and friends for financial support. This economic impact can result in potential income loss, career setbacks, and other professional disruptions. Balancing work commitments with caregiving becomes an intricate challenge.
Mental Health Caregiver Resources
Reaching out for help as a mental health caregiver is a proactive step toward maintaining one’s own well-being. There are various mental health caregiver resources available to provide support, information, and assistance for individuals caring for someone with mental health or substance use issues. Find valuable resources below:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Mental Health America (MHA)
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
PsychCentral - Caregivers Support Group
Online forums and Communities
Platforms like Reddit have dedicated communities for mental health caregivers. These forums provide a space for individuals to share their experiences, ask questions, and seek advice from others in similar situations.
Local Mental Health Organizations
Various local mental health organizations and community centers offer support groups or resources for caregivers.
Therapy and Counseling Services
Caregivers can benefit from individual or group therapy sessions. Mental health professionals can provide guidance, coping strategies, and a safe to discuss the challenges of caregiving.
Government Health Agencies
Government health agencies often have resources and information on mental health support for caregivers. You can check with your local health departments, like the LaSalle County Health Department, for valuable resources and information.
Recognizing and addressing the hidden challenges faced by mental health and substance use caregivers is the first step toward creating a supportive environment for both caregivers and their loved ones. If you find yourself experiencing loneliness or isolation as a caregiver, seeking help and utilizing these available resources are crucial to sustaining effecting caregiving.