The following are 5 ways that stress can negative impact a caregiver.
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Physical Health
Caregivers become at risk for chronic or disabling conditions themselves. Caregivers suffer from increased rates of physical symptoms including acid reflux, headaches, and pain/aching and have high levels of obesity and bodily pain.
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Emotional health
Caregiver stress is also linked with anxiety, depression and other mental health effects. Estimates show that between 40 to 70% of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression.
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Mental Health
Caregivers experiencing chronic stress may be at greater risk for cognitive decline including loss in short-term memory, attention adn verbal IQ.
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Leading to harmful behaviors
As a response to stress, caregivers are shown to have increased alcohol and other substance abuse.
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Lack in self-care
Caregivers are likely to neglect caring for themselves when stressed. Caregivers in a national survey reported that their eating (63%) and exercising (58%) habits are worse than before.
General Resources:
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
