Are you doing what you can to assist a family member who has had a stroke? Is your work made more complicated because your loved one is troubled, in addition to the physical complications the stroke has caused? Are you being stressed as a result of the situation? First, you should be aware that depression is common among stroke survivors and is often caused by biochemical changes in the brain. When the brain is damaged, a person’s ability to feel positive feelings can be impaired. Depression is a typical response to the physical and mental damages that a stroke causes. Some of the most common depression symptoms are:
- Increased exhaustion and a loss of control.
- Remembering, focusing, and making decisions are all difficult.
- Oversleeping, insomnia, or early morning waking.
- A sad, “cold,” or nervous mood that persists.
- Irritability and agitation.
- Helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, pessimism, or remorse are all common feelings.
- Reduced enjoyment or participation in hobbies and sports.
- Appetite and/or weight changes.
- Suicide attempts or thoughts of death.
Both the victim and the caregiver will find the recovery phase following a stroke more difficult if depressed. It is essential, however, that you do not succumb to depression. Studies have shown that caregivers with a strong sense of self-worth and confidence will make a stroke patient feel better. The following are some suggestions for preventing depression in yourself and your loved ones.
Look after yourself
Keep in mind that your loved one relies on you to stay fit and safe. So, don’t put all of your energy into caring for others while neglecting your health. Instead, make sure you get enough sleep, eat good, nutritious meals, and exercise regularly. Exercise is particularly relevant because studies show that it is just as effective as medicine in treating depression.
Take some time out for yourself
While caring for a stroke victim can take a lot of time, make sure to set aside time for yourself. You will reduce the stress levels by taking a break now and then. You’ll feel refreshed, calmer, and more efficient once you put on your caretaker hat again.
Encourage the stroke victim to maintain his or her social and physical activities.
Even though physical disabilities and depression can make social interaction difficult, it’s essential to encourage your loved one to stay involved. Despite the demands of becoming a caregiver, enabling yourself to be sociable and participate in enjoyable activities can increase your mental functioning and help you avoid depression.
Assist the patient in identifying things about which they have control
After a stroke, it’s natural for stroke survivors to focus on what they’ve lost. So concentrate on the aspects of your family member’s influence. Remind them that they should still be responsible for certain aspects of their lives, such as taking medicine, maintaining appointments, socializing with family and friends, and recovery therapy.
Recognize What Has Been Lost
It’s essential for both of you to understand and consider everything that has been lost, in addition to focusing on the positive. Negative feelings and grief are a normal part of the healing process for both the patient and you and should not be suppressed. If either of you is having trouble with this, counselling might be beneficial.
Ask for Assistance
You don’t have to do it yourself if you’re stressed by the challenge of caring for a loved one who has had a stroke. The difficulty of being a caregiver is something we understand well at CareProvide, and we’ll take care of it. We’re here to relieve you of the stress of caregiving, which can harm your physical and mental health.