COVID-19 changed the way care is delivered. Without contact, caregivers are forced to find new solutions when supporting those in need. We forget, however, the burden caregivers face daily. COVID-19, like it has with so many other things, has caused our world of care to radically change and placed even more burdens on our nation’s caregivers. Because of this, the nation is now witnessing the consequences of social isolation when attempting to give care. As Community Health Network’s counselor Demi Minter notes, “Caregivers may [experience] increased stress and anxiety taking care of a loved one at home without the support of other family due to social distancing.”
Due to social distancing guidelines, caregivers are experiencing even more burdens while attempting to care for loved ones. Without outside support, Caregivers find it difficult to properly take care of themselves by getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, exercising, and even finding times for themselves. Frankly, there is a sense of being overwhelmed:
[Caregivers] may experience some depression and overthinking. . .they may feel a sense of loneliness, as they put their lives on hold waiting for the pandemic to get better only [to] hear about new strains making things worse. (Minter)
Caregiving has always been a difficult job to do. COVID-19 makes the job much more difficult given the new guidelines and risks. In addition to making caregiving more difficult, COVID-19 adds yet another level of stress once we consider how many have lost their lives during the quarantine. No matter the era, losing someone is one of the most painful things to experience. Even as people attempt to care for themselves by ensuring they receive the proper rest and nutrition; many people may find it difficult to grieve. To support both caregivers and those who are grieving, Minter stress the following: “[Community Health Network will be offering grief groups to support counseling starting Tuesday, September 7 at noon. . .CHN will [also] be offering weekly Caregiver’s group set to start in mid-September.”
There is individual counseling as well to support those who may need more care in addition to the support group. The priority of caregivers and those who are grieving is to make sure they are seeking help. Minter further stresses the importance of seeking health from multiple places:
[you] may also find comfort in spiritual support if you are a person of faith. Speak with your pastor or other faith member who are praying for you. . . [moreover] caregivers often come from the support of family members, friends, the church and other faith groups.
It is important to remember we are not alone even with so much distance. No matter the group or form, community can always be found if one finds it in themselves to reach out. At Community Health Network, we are dedicated to providing care for those who give the most and for those who lost as well. For more information on all services provided by Community Health Network, feel free to visit our website mychn.org or give us a call at (281) 824-1480 to speak with a representative.
