Family Caregivers and Depression--Symptoms and Hope

The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) now offers specific online information for family caregivers living with depression, including how to recognize depression, how to cope, and resources for those dealing with depression.

It is a fact that family caregivers are more likely than non-caregivers to experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, family caregivers caring for their spouse experience depression at a rate that is six times higher than non-caregivers; the rate is twice as high for those caring for a parent.

When a family caregiver suffers from depression, it is important to remember that there are at least two people at risk: the family caregiver and the family member or friend for whom she or he cares.

Visit NFCA's Caregiver and Depression pages to find information about the symptoms of depression, how depression can be treated, and how to screen yourself for signs of depression. You will read caregivers' descriptions here of how they view their experience of depression, caregiver-to-caregiver advice, and information that takes into account the reality of what it means to be a family caregiver.

Learn more about the National Family Caregivers Association in the November 2008 issue of Caring Right at Home, and visit the NFCA website to find more resources and support for those providing care for a loved one. 

If you know someone who may need respite from their caregiving duties, visit our website to learn more about home care and how it can help.

Right at Home is a national organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for those we serve. We fulfill that mission through a dedicated network of locally owned, franchised providers of in-home care and assistance services.