(Source BlackDoctor+org):
Help directly is best. It is also important to remember that sometimes asking for small favors can go a long way. Having someone come sit with your loved one in the evening to allow you to go to dinner with a friend can provide a much-needed break
- Educate Yourself
Learn as much as possible about the condition of your loved one. Being knowledgeable about their condition can help shape your expectations about their course of illness and will make you a more effective caregiver
- Seek Professional Help
For certain illnesses, there are specific caregiver support groups that can provide a release for the caregiver. If that isn’t available or suitable, finding a therapist or clergy member for counseling can help the caregiver deal with a wide range of emotions. For caregivers with a history of depression or anxiety, it would be recommended to continue in treatment with your mental health provider
Dr. Nicole Washington is a board-certified psychiatrist, speaker, author and host of The C-Suite Confidant, a biweekly podcast covering topics pertinent to mental wellness for the high performer. She enjoys discussing and providing education on all things mental wellness in hopes of decreasing the stigma associated with mental health issue
