Gather knowledge and set limits
As a family caregiver, your role is to support and encourage your loved one. This may mean that you help them manage the day-to-day struggles they are facing as a result of their mood disorder. It also includes helping them to find the treatment they need to get well.
To be effective as a family caregiver, you need to learn as much as you can about the mood disorder that impacts your loved one. By learning more about depression or bipolar disorder, you will be able to help them access the resources and support they need.
You'll find yourself needing an array of skills, like being able to communicate effectively and advocate with medical and mental health practitioners and insurers. As you build these skills, you'll also build your confidence and become an even better family caregiver.
Keep in mind that family caregivers need support, too. It's common that caregivers take on more than their fair share of family and financial responsibilities. Too often, though, caregivers fail to tend to their own well-being. Make sure you seek out and use the resources that will support your own mental and physical health. Learn more about self-care and boundaries.
Stages of Change
Change can be slow, difficult, and frustrating. Learn the Stages of Change.
Communication Webinar
Learn to have effective conversations when your loved one is depressed.
Ziona
Norma had a hard time helping daughter Ziona because she was depressed too.