Stress and Depression

Being the close relative of a person with dementia requires a great deal of effort. You take on an increasing amount of tasks and responsibilities and sometimes you may forget your own needs. That often creates physical and psychological strain due to a stressed everyday life. 

As carer, you risk becoming seriously ill. Partially because you may neglect your own physical and emotional health and partially because you feel isolated and lonely, and need someone to share everyday joys and sorrows with. Many relatives also have great expectations of handling the situation themselves without outside help. Consequently, many get help too late when they have already suffered physical and psychological fallout.

Carers must be particularly aware of physical symptoms such as elevated blood pressure and heart troubles. Stressful daily situations can also lead to development of depression and other related disorders.

• Be aware of symptoms of stress, both physical and psychological.
• Talk with your doctor regularly.
• Introduce help into you everyday life gradually so the person with dementia will get used to help from others.
• Utilise respite care, plan for this in advance so you know where to go for help.
• Prevent having two sick people in the family.

Read more about depression here: www.depnet.com.au