Discussions of Stress Need To Cover Caregivers.

The Strange Psychology of Stress and Burnout, which appeared in BBC WorkLife’s November 17, 2019 post, discusses the relationship of stress to Cortisol; important.  The article described several results or diseases that begin with exposure to prolonged stress.  It also mentioned some situations that can cause stress but left one out; caregiving! Already, 34.9 million people are self-identified caregivers.  In addition, some people are starting to do caregiving and don’t realize they’re in this new role; yet. 

This article shows the photo of a man; yet 66.5% of caregivers are women.  The photo shows multiple phones.  Yes, many caregivers have spent time on the phone to coordinate care for the elder.  However, caregivers face the competition of simultaneously dealing with home, job, and possible child care while doing caregiving!  The focus of the article is on job-related stress.  Caregivers bring their stress to work with them.  Thus, what looks like job burn-out might be a result of simultaneous stressors; job and caregiving.

The remedy described in the article involves changing the perception  of the person under stress; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and changing jobs or shifting responsibilities.  Sadly, these are not usually available to the family caregiver.  She may not have insurance coverage for therapy.  Group insurance plans may not recognize family caregiving as a stressor worthy of intervention.  How does the working caregiver access therapy?  She has no “off-duty” time.  She goes from the career job over to the home “job”. 

It’s time for all of us to make sure caregivers as SEEN and heard.