Negative emotions and Despair

It can be hard to relate to the person with dementia if their behaviour changes drastically. For example, they may be unhygienic, foul-mouthed and quite disinhibited, especially very late in the course of the disease. Under such circumstances, it is not uncommon to experience negative feelings towards them. Feeling like this may cause despair.

Some people prefer to distance themselves or have a difficult time being alone with the person with dementia. They often react with despair, depressive tendencies and perhaps physical illness. It is terrible to admit to yourself that someone you love has become unbearable to be around. It is even harder to tell others about these feelings. In such a situation, you may need special help from the people around you.

• If you distance yourself from the person with dementia, what is the cause?
• Talk with someone - you need to share this emotional burden.
• Seek help from a professional. Talk with a doctor/psychologist.
• Negative feelings may lead to despair and depression. Get help before that happens.