If you think PTSD only happens to those who have experienced life-threatening danger, think again. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can arise after any traumatic experience or event. It might surprise you to learn that caring for a loved one is among the main causes of PTSD. However, the condition frequently goes undetected, and thus untreated. This happens because the person receiving care is usually the primary focus of both healthcare providers and the family at large.
As a family caregiver, it’s important to know the red flags of caregiver PTSD – that are noticeably different from other forms of PTSD – and to seek help if you are experiencing them. These include:
- Anxiety: Heightened anxiety about your family member’s health and wellbeing can be especially noticeable at night and may lead to night terrors.
- Flashbacks: Reliving a distressing experience can result in the same degree of emotion as when the event occurred.
- Apathy: You may feel numb, empty, and emotionally detached from loved ones. This can take place in conjunction with compassion fatigue.
- Pain: Both physical and emotional pain can be unrelenting and overwhelming. This may include an upset stomach and headaches in addition to feelings of hopelessness and anguish.
Why Are Caregivers at Risk for PTSD?
There are several factors that come into play to produce the perfect storm for caregiver PTSD, including:
- Grief over a range of losses: watching a loved one’s health diminish, experiencing a relationship shift from simply being a family member to being in a caregiver role, not being able to live life as it was in the past, and much more
- The overwhelming responsibilities involved in caregiving: from day-to-day care tasks to managing life-changing medical and financial decisions on a loved one’s behalf
- Challenging family dynamics and complex emotions such as remorse, guilt, helplessness, and hopelessness
- Hospitalizations and other emergency situations that arise
What Should You Do if You Think You Have Caregiver PTSD?
The first step should be to consult with your primary care physician to explain signs and symptoms you’re experiencing. You’ll want to rule out any other medical conditions, particularly if you are experiencing any physical pain.
It’s also essential to identify a therapist who is specifically trained in treating those with PTSD. There are effective treatment options, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy, as well as individual, family, or group counseling.
Taking regular breaks from your caregiving role is also extremely important. Let family members and friends know that you are struggling and that you could use extra support. Caregiving should never be a one-person responsibility. Permitting others to step in and help benefits the person you are providing care for as well, providing them with additional opportunities for social connections.
How Does Home Care Help?
Independence-4-Seniors Home Care’s in-home respite care services enable you to take the time away you need for self-care while knowing a loved one is receiving exceptional care. Taking care of yourself is paramount to providing the best care for your family member. Contact us online or call us at (630) 323-4665 for more information about our services in Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Lombard and nearby communities.