Inviz1: I’m a burned out caregiver... - Anxiety and Depre...

Anxiety and Depression Support

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Inviz1

Inviz1 profile image
8 Replies

I’m a burned out caregiver taking care of two family members. My 89 yr old mother and my schizophrenic son. I have suffered with clinical depression and anxiety all my life. I take Zoloft 150 mg religiously and still struggle with my depression. Is there any respite for caregiver like me. I’ve yet to find anyone who would volunteer so I can rest. Like to hear anyones thoughts or ideas.

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Inviz1
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8 Replies

I am in the UK and they do have centres for caregivers.Do you have any assistance from Social Team, they should be able to assist

BOB

You should get carers from social workers for disability team

Arymretep profile image
Arymretep

I cared for my Mum who had vascular dementia and it’s such hard work , in the U.K. we have respite places where people can go for carers to have a break, I couldn’t have carried on without this help, do you have a social worker , if not ask your Doctor to put you in touch , take care

TyrSwimmer_Sac profile image
TyrSwimmer_Sac

I feel for you even as I await the police to visit here. I care for my schizophrenic and bipolar younger sister and older brother with other mental health issues plus alcoholism. It's tough. I'm 52 and I see no end to my care giving while I hold the only job in this house. I can only get help as needed from other siblings but that is rare. I just try to make time for myself though lately it's been work that has been giving me the time away from home. At some point it's necessary to take time for ourselves regardless of them. Otherwise we'll just break down and won't be of use to anyone. Wish I had better feedback.

Still you got support here and someone to lean on when you need a kind ear. :-)

Mumma_h profile image
Mumma_h

Can totally sympathise, I’m care for both my son and daughter. My so. Has mental illness ( which is getting worse and becoming more delusional) I find it emotionally exhausting . Its tiring not knowing if hel make it through the day . I hope the other replies can put you in the right direction, where I live there isn’t any help . But I’ll be saying a prayer for you and me both to give us strength, and hope for a better future for our sons , and that you’ll get actual physical help with your mum so you can get a break you so deserve 💕

Midori profile image
Midori

I don't know what the position is re: respite care for you, but it does not sound like a good situation where you are.

I believe there is something like CPS for Elderly folk; might be worth contacting them, also is your son legally adult?.

Why don't you try asking if there are any support charities for folk in your predicament? It is important that you take care of yourself, or you won't be fit to care for your mother and son.

Cheers, Midori

bethelbee profile image
bethelbee

Call social services to look into respite care for your mom and son and/or yourself. If you keep going as you are you will be totally burnt out and be of no good to them. You need the support. Hope it all works out. Please keep us posted. Sending hugs and support!!

cbgrace1980 profile image
cbgrace1980

Thank you for doing such a good job taking care of your family. It can take quite a toll on your body to be responsible for other people that often. Make sure you are getting rest when you can, staying hydrated, and doing things you enjoy. I know it can be hard to find time for those things but doing so will help you feel more balanced. Make sure your doctor knows the burdens you are carrying and that perhaps you might need to add a medication to assist you during this time. We are here for you anytime you need to vent. I am hoping someone will volunteer to help you soon.

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