When Nurses Need Care: What Is Caregiver Stress Syndrome?
MORE THAN 44 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE U.S. ACT AS UNPAID CAREGIVERS FOR LOVED ONES OR FRIENDS, reports the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA). Although caring for another person without the obligation to pay might seem beneficial and heart-warming, it increases personal health risks.
In other words, it increases the risk for caregiver stress syndrome, which may afflict professional health professionals, such as nurses, as well. To help your nursing staff, you need to understand what caregiver stress syndrome is, how to recognize it and what steps can be taken to prevent it.
What Is Caregiver Stress Syndrome?
Caregiver stress syndrome is an involuntary reaction to continued elevated stress levels from providing continued care for another person. However, providing care means more than simply addressing direct health needs.
For example, assisting with financial responsibilities, providing transportation, doing laundry and preparing meals can all be part of care. This means a person is taking time away from personal responsibilities to care for others. In the case of nurses, the obligation may be more profound, as family members might turn to a health care worker in the family for help – potentially putting the nurse’s own health at risk.
How Do You Recognize Caregiver Stress Syndrome?
The signs and symptoms of caregiver stress syndrome may mimic those of chronic stress. They include:
- Recurring fatigue.
- Anxiety and continual worrying.
- Insomnia or sleep deprivation.
- Generalized depression, including feelings of sadness or guilt.
- Headaches.
- Changes in dietary habits.
There may also be a darker indicator of caregiver stress syndrome – the abuse of substances, including illicit and prescription drugs or alcohol – as caregivers search for ways to meet the relentless demands placed on them.
What Can You Do to Prevent Caregiver Stress Syndrome?
While preventing caregiver stress syndrome may seem simple, it does require effort to convince those affected of the seriousness of their condition. Consider these steps:
- Remind caregivers to take time for themselves.
- Encourage caregivers to talk about their feelings and to be heard.
- Get more family members or friends involved in providing care.
- Promote healthy ways of managing stress, such as exercising, meditating, engaging in relaxation therapies, or even watching a movie.
- Establish a sleep schedule to ensure a full night’s rest.
- Recognize that you have both a right to feel and a right to heal.
Putting It All Together.
Caregiver stress syndrome is a real condition. Being someone’s caregiver is rewarding, but it can also impact your physical and mental well‐being. Learn how to recognize caregiver stress syndrome today and act if you suspect you, a family member, or a friend might be dealing with this illness.
You cannot care for others if you cannot care for yourself.