April recognizes National Stress Awareness Month. While stress is a common topic in the workplace, it is often overlooked in discussions around caregiving – whether that is for new parents, an adult caring for an elderly family member, or a professional in the caregiving field.
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 20% of Americans are full-time caregivers to someone and are dealing with high levels of depression and anxiety. The physical and mental toll that caregiving takes can be overwhelming, leaving a person feeling stretched thin and unsupported.
If you are acting as a caregiver, remember that your needs are also important – it's okay if you need a break and to ask for your help.
Support the Caregivers in Your Life
Alternatively, if you are looking for ways to support a caregiver in your life, here are some actions you can take to help ease their stress and be an important resource for them.
- Give Them a Break
If appropriate, offer to help with the care so they can take a break. This may not work in all situations, especially for a professional caregiver, but maybe you can step in or perform a certain task to give the caregiver a break – even better, recognize something that needs to be done and take care of it without asking what they need help with. Having just an hour to themselves can make a world of difference for their well-being and mindset, and alleviate some stress.
- Offer Practical, Actionable Help
Instead of asking, “How can I help?” offer specific, practical help. Caregivers are often overwhelmed, and vague offers can feel burdensome. Be proactive by suggesting things you can do. For example, “I’m going to grab dinner tonight—would you prefer chicken or beef?” or “I’m picking up groceries tomorrow, can I grab anything for you?” Small, simple gestures can make their day much easier.
- Do Emotional Check-Ins
Maybe you can’t directly offer care, but you can offer emotional support. Ask them how they are doing and let them know you are here to listen. Giving them a safe, non-judgmental space just to vent can relieve a lot of stress. Remember not to offer advice unless asked, and to be present and use active listening skills.
- Keep Them Included
Caregivers can often feel isolated due to their responsibilities and schedules. Include and invite them in plans anyway, even if they can’t come. A phone call or text can go a long way, but don’t feel slighted if they don’t answer or respond right away. Part of being supportive is understanding that they have a lot of priorities and checking their phone is probably not one of them. Either way, continue to let them know that you are thinking about them and that they are valued outside of their caregiving role.
Whether it’s through emotional support or an act of service, there are lots of ways to let the caregiver in your life know that they are loved and appreciated, and they are not alone.
Nexus Family Healing is a national nonprofit mental health organization that restores hope for thousands of children and families who come to us for community mental health services, foster care and adoption, and residential treatment. For over 50 years, our network of agencies has used innovative, personalized approaches to heal trauma, break cycles of harm, and reshape futures. We believe every child is worth it — and every family matters. Access more resources at NexusFamilyHealing.org/resources.