November is National Family Caregivers Month
November is National Caregivers Month! National Caregivers Month provides resources for self-care, advocacy, and de-stressing for our caregivers. The month is dedicated to supporting them as they care for others.
This is a time to celebrate the contributions of family caregivers and provide them with the tools and support they need to keep themselves and their care recipients healthy.
- Many family caregivers also work outside the home, often experiencing conflicts between competing responsibilities. When talking with a caregiver, listen non-judgmentally and show compassion.
- The stress and daily challenges of caregiving can have a major impact on a caregiver’s mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, substance misuse and stress disorders.
- Research shows that caregiving responsibilities also take a significant physical and financial toll on caregivers.
- During the busy holiday season and beyond, offer a caregiver your help with specific tasks. Encourage them to ask for and accept assistance rather than trying to do everything themselves.
During November, Stamp Out Stigma is taking this opportunity to discuss the importance of caregivers. We will be highlighting the vital work caregivers do each and every day. Being a caregiver can be a labor of love, but it can also be stressful. This month learn how you can be an effective caregiver while also taking care of yourself. Throughout the month of November, we encourage family, friends, and loved ones to learn more about what it takes to be a caregiver and what resources are available to help those who need it.
Here are some important facts you should know:
- About 34.2 million Americans have provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months.
- Approximately 39.8 million caregivers provide care to adults (aged 18+) with a disability or illness or 16.6% of Americans.
- Approximately 43.5 million caregivers who have provided unpaid care to an adult or child in the last 12 months.
- More than 75% of all family caregivers are women. And for many, caregiving is in addition to working full time and raising children of their own.
- About 15.7 million adult family caregivers care for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia.
Remember, mental illness does not discriminate. Join us to help bring attention to the importance of sharing mental health stories and help improve the lives of millions of Americans living with a mental illness.
Help is available! Visit https://www.magellanhealthcare.com/about/bh-resources/mymh/ or contact your program to learn more about how to help yourself or someone you care about.