Caregiving is one of the most selfless and demanding roles anyone can take on. The reality is that it often goes unnoticed, leaving caregivers feeling exhausted and isolated. But even in the most difficult moments, remember that your love and dedication matter. You are doing something extraordinary, even if it feels unbearably hard.

If you’re struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out, ask for help, and lean on whatever resources are available. No one can do this alone, and no one should have to.

There are several types of therapy that can help caregivers. Do not be ashamed or afraid to go to therapy. It’s a LIFESAVER. With telehealth available – therapy is an option even in rural areas. Having a plan to get through this season is always a plus.Based on information I gathered from multiple online sources, therapy options such as CBT, DBT, and ACT can help caregivers manage stress and mental health challenges. ⁽¹⁾ A mental health professional can help guide you.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): A goal-oriented therapy that helps caregivers identify and change negative thought patterns 
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A therapy that can help caregivers manage negative emotions 
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): A therapy that can help caregivers 
• Psychodynamic therapy: A therapy that can help caregivers 
• Skills training: Training in communication, time-management, and stress-reduction 

The burden grows even heavier when caregivers must balance full-time jobs, their own families, and personal well-being. The stress of coordinating appointments, managing medications, and handling the decline of a loved one’s health can be isolating and exhausting. Many suffer in silence, feeling obligated to do it all without complaint, while their own needs take a backseat.

An AARP survey on mental health and caregivers emphasizes how much all that extra work weighs on family caregivers: Half of caregivers (50%) said caregiving increased their level of emotional stress, while more than one-third (37%) said it impacted their physical feelings of stress. Female caregivers experience more stress and anxiety than their male counterparts; and younger caregivers (under 35) have more emotional challenges than older caregivers, with higher levels of anxiety. A whopping 4 in 10 caregivers (39%) report they rarely or never feel relaxed.⁽²⁾ 

Caregiving isn’t supposed to be a one-person circus act—but let’s be real, it often is. Most people prefer to keep a safe distance, as if getting too close might land them a starring role. As long as the loved one is doing okay, it’s easy for others to mentally clock out.

And here’s the kicker—the people who do the least are often the first to proudly declare, “Oh yes, I’m a caregiver!” Newsflash: Swinging by once a month with a casserole or showing up only when summoned? That’s not caregiving—that’s guest starring.

Harsh? Maybe. True? Absolutely. So if this sounds a little too familiar… time to step it up!

What We Need to Do for the Future:

Rural communities need better resources—affordable respite care, visiting nurse programs, and support groups—to lighten the load. While caregiving is an act of love, love alone isn’t enough. A society that truly values its elders must also care for its caregivers, ensuring they have the support they need to continue this essential work without sacrificing their own well-being.

Next Stop:

¹ Information gathered from an internet search on therapy options for caregivers, February 2025.

² AARP. (2023). New Report Highlights Mental Health Struggles of Family Caregivers. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/health/info-2023/report-caregiver-mental-health.html