While it is ok to feel down every so often, you may reach a stage where, as a live-in carer, you start to feel sad more times than you feel happy. Life may seem to have overwhelming issues which you simply don’t seem to be able to face, let alone handle.

Depression is not something which should be ignored. In fact, people who tell you to ‘get over it’ can do more harm than good. It should never be taken lightly.

There are several recognized types of depression, and all of them have the power to alter your life – and not in a good way.

If you feel depressed most of the time and for most of the week, then you really should see your doctor to discuss ways to manage depression.

Some symptoms of depression are:

• Tearful for no reason
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• Loss of interest in what you used to enjoy
• Feeling excessively sleepy in the day and unable to sleep at night
• Restlessness and agitation
• Mentally slowing down
• Tired without any energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Problems with concentrating and making decisions
• Any thoughts of suicide

Your doctor will question you about these signs. If you have five or more of them on several days a week or you admit that you feel suicidal or have lost interest in things you normally enjoy, he will agree that you are indeed suffering from depression.

What causes depression?

There is often a trigger for depression. This can be a life-changing event such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, or losing a job. Even giving birth to a baby can trigger depression when the new mom feels inadequate.

As we see, there are many things which are triggers. A history of depression in the family is also a trigger for some people.

How is depression treated?

There are several ways to work with depression. While medication may help, your doctor will first suggest ‘talk therapy.’

Other ways may include making some positive changes in your lifestyle. These may include getting more exercise and a change of diet.

For mild depression, your GP may adopt a ‘watch and see’ program but if it is severe, he may prescribe an antidepressant.

Living with depression

As live-in carers we are subject to many situations which can be upsetting and saddening. This is particularly true when a client we have been with for a long time dies. Understandably, this is upsetting and may be a cause of mild depression.

Reading self-help books may be one way of keeping yourself in a positive frame of mind. Another way to work with depression is to talk to like-minded people who are in a similar position.

There are various carer forums where you will be able to do this and find support as well as positive advice on coping with day-to-day life in a positive way.

Final thoughts

Never think that you should keep depression to yourself. It is nothing to be ashamed off and not the ‘fault’ of anyone. Depression happens to many people, in fact most people feel some sort of depression at difficult times.

Asking for help should be one of the first things you do if you think you are depressed. Talking will show you that you are not alone. Who knows, you may be able to help another person who is not coping too well. 

Tags:

1

Go Back to Previous Page

Live in care jobs