Caregiver Depression: Recognizing Signs & Finding Support

What Causes Depression in Caregivers?

Caregiver depression can come from a combination of factors. There’s the heavy weight of being responsible for the constant care of someone else, but there are other culprits to consider, too. Understanding the potential causes is essential to overcoming them. 

Emotional stress

“Caring for a loved one can be physically and emotionally demanding, and without the proper support in place can lead to emotional burnout and/or depression. Being able to provide physical and emotional care for a loved one takes a toll as it can be physically challenging and emotionally depleting as one copes with the changes in your loved one’s condition. Knowing when to ask for help is crucial, whether through respite care, a support group, or speaking with a licensed mental health professional so that you can have a space to safely discuss your concerns.”

– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH

Physical exhaustion

Caretaking is physically demanding. You’re responsible for daily activities — like getting dressed, meeting nutritional needs, and maintaining personal hygiene — and you also likely make and go to medical appointments and provide other physical support that can leave you feeling drained. The physical exertion that comes with caregiving duties, often without adequate rest, can lead to caregiver fatigue and make you more vulnerable to depression.

Social isolation

Caregiving consumes so much time and energy that you might withdraw from social activities or outside connections. The isolation so many caregivers feel leads to loneliness, yet another trigger for depression. Not having enough — or any — social support can exacerbate emotional and mental stress and make it harder to cope.

Burnout 

Financial strain

Being a caregiver can be financially taxing, especially if you can’t work the hours you once did or you need to leave your job entirely. There are often costs associated with medical care, specialized equipment, or other expenses that cause financial strain. The added pressure of worrying about money may further contribute to depressive symptoms.

How Does Diagnosis Work?

To diagnose any type of depression, you need to get a comprehensive evaluation from a trained professional. You can start with your primary care physician, or you can find a therapist. 

The process for diagnosing caregiver depression generally includes the following:

Getting a clinical assessment

Going through a symptom checklist or standardized screening questionnaire

Reviewing medical and family history 

Getting a physical exam

Having a mental health evaluation

Exploring differential diagnoses

Seeking ongoing monitoring

“While depression can look different in each person, in a caregiver it is especially important to assess depression as the physical and emotional toll of caregiving often goes unacknowledged. Being able to openly discuss the impact on the caregiver and not assume changes they are experiencing simply come with the territory of being a caregiver. Some examples include changes in appetite, sleep, mood, feelings of agitation, loss of interest in activities, and/or physical ailments.”

– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH

Tips for Managing Depression as a Caregiver

Although it can be challenging, you can learn to balance depression and caregiving. It’s easier when you know about effective self-care strategies, support, and other coping tools. 

Tips to help you cope with depression from caregiving can include:

Using self-care: It’s important to make time for activities, people, and things you enjoy. Self-care for caregivers can be as simple as reading, going for a walk, or planning a night off to meet up with friends. If you don’t have help or support, respite care services can step in so you can take much-needed and critical time off to maintain your mental well-being.

Finding a support network: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups lets you share some of the pain you’re going through. Having a network of people who understand can reduce feelings of isolation and offer you emotional relief.

Being realistic with your expectations: Remind yourself that you can’t possibly do everything perfectly. Set realistic and achievable goals, and try to accept that it’s OK if you need help or have to delegate responsibilities from time to time.

Creating a routine: Routines provide stability and predictability in everyone’s life. They can also help you manage your time and reduce chaos that might be contributing to feeling depressed. 

Staying active: Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a positive mood and healthy energy levels. Activities like yoga, walking, or light stretching can significantly improve your tolerance and reduce daily stress.

Prioritizing sleep and a healthy diet: Eating well and getting enough sleep does wonders for managing depression. You’d be surprised how much of a difference nourishing your mind and body can make.