Blog

Why Do Caregivers Worry So Much?

May 10, 2019
Lenora Alabi
One of the problems that you might run into as a caregiver is that of worrying too much. Worry comes from a well-meaning place, but it doesn't do you or your aging adult as much good as you think and hope that it might. It can actually start to feel crippling for you and start to create some self-fulfilling prophecies.

You Want the Best for Your Family Member

Part of being a caregiver is the fact that you want what is best for your aging adult. That can mean different things at different times and when she's experiencing health issues or setbacks, you might be worrying more. You might also find yourself worrying more at different times of day or even times of the year, when your senior is more likely to experience illness or health issues.

Worrying Sometimes Feels Productive

The problem with worrying is that it sometimes feels as if you're being productive when you worry. Worry often starts out as concern, and that can encourage you to find solutions to problems. When concern morphs into full-blown worry, though, you're less likely to be as productive as you believe that you are. Worry interferes with your thought processes and can slow everything down.

There's a Lot Going On

You and your senior may each have a lot going on in your lives. Your responsibilities and obligations might range from caregiving to your career and other family obligations. Your elderly family member may be coping with more than one chronic illness as well as trying to balance healthy living. If she no longer drives, that can add a layer of obligation and concern to what you're already facing.

You Feel Unprepared

Newer caregivers in particular can feel incredibly unprepared for what it means to be a caregiver. Your confidence will grow as you spend more time in this role. As new challenges pop up, though, you might find that the confidence you've been building faces a challenge because those responsibilities keep growing and growing. Remembering that you're doing the best you can with the skills and resources you've got can help immensely.

There may be plenty of other situational reasons that keep you worrying more than you should. If you're having a tough time getting a handle on your worrying, you might want to consider working with a therapist. A good therapist can give you tools to use when your worrying is out of hand.

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING CAREGIVERS IN NEW EAST SIDE, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.