Dealing with our own depression and anxiety

Chief

I am trying to find a way to deal with my issues while being a caregiver ! Lately it seems some of the simplest things like having trouble accessing Trualta support group meetings can cause a lot of frustration and anxiety. With everything that seems to be causing difficulty lately I just feel the need to take a break from gatherings on line and in person. My advantage after all the things I went through caring for my wife in 2020, I learned not to take anything out on my mother in law. I just hide it from everyone.

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Chief
It sounds like you're going through a lot right now and it's completely understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed. I commend you for acknowledging your feelings and trying to find ways to cope while still fulfilling your caregiving responsibilities! Taking a break can be a healthy choice if it helps alleviate some of the stress and anxiety you're experiencing.
It's always okay to prioritize your own well-being and take the time you need to recharge.
Have you considered reaching out to talk to someone on a 1:1 level such as counselor or therapist? It might be worth exploring if group settings aren't meeting your needs. Seeking support can provide you with an outlet to express yourself - keeping everything bottled up can take a toll on your mental and physical health!
Take care !

Quilter1

I don’t deal well. I have had both of these conditions for years. The current situation exacerbates that in me, I am often just stuck and can’t move into the next action I need to take. I am a quilter and I try to keep active, but if that is going badly, I am a basket case about everything and just sit.

Chief

Darci

I am sorry I am so slow in responding. In 2021 I did see a councilor for a while, she had more issues than I did but I got through it for a while. Several people have told me I need to try another councilor, the biggest problem is that in my area there really don't seem to be any that have the experience in dealing with someone who is a caregiver. Also unfortunately for me there is a lot more to my story. Monique is familiar with my situation. In 2020 my wife was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma from diagnosis to death was 6 months and 7 days. She died 3 months and 3 days before our 40th wedding anniversary. 8 days after my wife died my mother tested positive for covid. she was in a nursing home and I had not been able to see her since Sept., 23 days after my wife died my mother died and I buried them 27 days apart. Upon my wife's death I became the sole caregiver for her mother. In 2021 I had to finally treat my own recurrence of cancer. Just for the record my mother in law is 101 and her birthday is in July. Sorry for the long explanation but I have lost interest in most everything I did or do.

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Chief
Hi Chief,
Thanks for responding and sharing your story. I'm sorry you had a less than desirable experience with your therapist. Like in any profession, therapists vary in their approach, personalities, and areas of expertise. It can be difficult to find the right therapist that aligns with your specific needs and it is common for people to "try out" a few different counselors before finding the right fit. I do think it is worthwhile to continue your search! Depending on your insurance and location, you might be able to find a counselor by calling your insurance and asking if they have a provider list or asking if they provide telehealth counseling - ask your physician for assistance finding a counselor (as many offices offer case management services or referrals), or researching online counseling services that are available. Your mental health journey is important and finding the right support is worth the effort!