Caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also one of the hardest jobs anyone can take on. It is not uncommon for carers to feel overwhelmed, anxious or isolated as they try to balance their caring responsibilities with the rest of their lives.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Neerja Agarwal, co-founder of mental health platform – Emoneeds, shared, “Often caregivers neglect their own needs, which can lead to burnout, fatigue and sometimes even depression. In fact, 40% to 70% of family caregivers report experiencing clinical symptoms of depression. This emotional strain can be compounded by physical health problems, with 23% of carers feeling that their caregiving responsibilities are having a negative impact on their own health.’
Caregivers may not realize the pressure they are under until it starts to affect their sleep, mood or general well-being. Dr. Neerja Aggarwal suggested, “It’s important to recognize these signs early and offer support, as caregiving is both physically and emotionally demanding, even if it comes from a place of love. Finding ways to help caregivers cope with stress can make a world of difference. Encouraging them to take time for themselves, whether it’s a short break or talking to a counselor, can help prevent burnout.”
He argued: “Carers also need to hear that it’s okay to ask for help – whether that’s by joining a support group, seeking help or simply leaning on friends and family. Small things like helping with household chores or arranging extra care can really lighten the load. The most important thing is to let them know that they are not alone in this and that looking after their own well-being is just as important as the care they give to their loved ones.’
Bringing her experience to bear on the same, Vishakha Langewar, clinical psychologist at mental health platform – Lissun, reiterated, “Caregiving is a very demanding role that often involves emotional, physical and financial challenges. As a caregiver, you don’t just provide support; you also endure a significant mental health burden. Recognizing and addressing this strain is critical to both the wellbeing of carers and the quality of care they provide.’
She added: “Carers often feel isolated, stressed and burnt out. The emotional burden of seeing a loved one struggle can lead to anxiety and depression. Moreover, the physical demands of caregiving—lifting, moving, or being constantly on alert—can exacerbate these feelings. Financial pressures and strain in personal relationships further complicate the situation.’
Vishakha Langjewar recommended the following steps to ease the tension:
1. Self-care is very important –
Make self-care a priority. Simple activities like going for a walk, reading a book, or taking up a hobby can provide a much-needed respite. Regular exercise and a balanced diet also help improve mental health.
2. Seek professional help –
Don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional. Therapists and counselors can offer strategies for managing stress and dealing with feelings of heightened anxiety or depression.
3. Build a support network –
You can connect with others who understand your situation. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer a space to share experiences and gain insight. Family and friends can also be valuable sources of support.
4. Delegate duties –
Share caregiving responsibilities with others whenever possible. This can prevent overload and allow for breaks. You can also seek help from local services or community programs.
5. Set realistic goals –
Set achievable goals and recognize your limits. It’s important to be realistic about what you can handle without compromising your own well-being.
6. Take time for yourself –
Make it a priority to schedule regular breaks, even if they are short. Getting away, even for a short while, helps recharge your emotional and physical batteries.
Vishakha Langewar concluded, “The role of caregiver is invaluable, but it faces significant challenges. By recognizing mental health stress and taking proactive steps to address it, carers can improve their own well-being and continue to provide the compassionate care their loved ones need. Prioritizing self-care and seeking support not only benefits caregivers, but also improves the overall caregiving experience.”
