Caring for the caregiver

A caregiver can be a spouse, child, relative, good friend or hired help. Caring for someone with cancer means big changes in the caregiver’s life. Know that every situation and person is different. Caregiving isn’t just about picking up medicine, driving to appointments or reacting to treatmentrelated side effects. It is about doing everything you can to help the person living with cancer have a better quality of life. Physically, emotionally or mentally, you are on call to meet those needs, and that is an extremely challenging role.

The impact of caregiving

It’s okay to acknowledge that caregiving for your loved one has had a significant impact on your life, including:

• You go on more emotional rollercoaster rides than before

• You have a hard time sleeping

• You become more irritable or sensitive

• You face financial issues from not being able to maintain a full-time job or

paying for more expenses

• You become closer to family and friends

• You are more tired and get sick more often

• You may learn to value life and the people in yours more

• You may seem more reserved or removed from those who know you

• You might have an increased level of insecurity in how you handle your stress, juggle your life, manage your relationships and care for your loved one