Being a caregiver can be challenging. In fact, developing depression is not uncommon for caregivers due to the heavy demands of the job. If you’re a caregiver for a parent, spouse, child or other loved one, it’s important to understand the signs of depression. That way, you may learn to recognize it in yourself or in them, too.

About depression

It’s not unusual to feel down once in a while — many times, those feelings pass within a couple days. But if feelings of sadness last longer than two weeks, you or a loved one may be suffering from major depression. In this case, it’s important you talk with your doctor. The good news is that the condition can be successfully treated.

Major depression is a common, but serious condition that affects how you think and feel. It can also be associated with physical symptoms. About one in 15 people every year suffer from major depression — that’s about 16 million people in all. It can range from mild to severe, and symptoms can vary by each person.

Risk factors

Depression can happen without a direct cause, but the following factors may contribute to the risk of developing it:

Medical condition
Trauma
Drug and alcohol addiction
Chemical imbalances
Genetics/family history

Common symptoms

If you’re depressed, you may not want to be with people, even the person you’re providing care for. You may even start to isolate yourself. This kind of withdrawal can cause pain and may affect those around you.

Here are a few other common symptoms of depression:

Becoming easily tired or restless
Experiencing thoughts of death or suicide*
Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
Significant changes in sleeping patterns or appetite
Having difficulty concentrating or making a decision
Feeling sad, hopeless, pessimistic, guilty or helpless

Depression can be different from person to person. If your symptoms are severe or have lasted longer than two weeks, it’s time to speak with your doctor.

Reach out for help

Your first step should be to talk with your doctor. Your doctor will perform a full evaluation with a history and physical examination. As some medications or medical conditions can cause symptoms similar to depression, your doctor may also order lab tests to help rule out other conditions. Based on the results of your examination and any other tests your doctor may have ordered, your doctor may recommend psychotherapy, medication or other types of treatments.

Know depression may continue after caregiving

Many may assume that depression will end after you’ve been a caregiver — for example, after deciding to place your parent or loved one in a care facility. But that’s not necessarily true. Caregivers may feel guilty or lonely, and feeling depressed may continue.

Stay connected and be patient

In addition to any recommended treatments, try to be active and get some exercise as recommended by your doctor. Be around other people. Talk to those you trust and ask for support, too. But don’t expect your energy and positive outlook to necessarily pop back into place right away. That should return over time, as you get the help you need.

Also, if your doctor has prescribed medication for depression, keep in mind that it may take weeks to work, and sometimes different medications need to be prescribed. If you’re concerned your medication is not helping, talk to your doctor. Never stop taking a medication without talking with your doctor first.

Sources:

American Psychiatric Association (APA). What is depression? April 2024.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Depression. Accessed June 2024.

DISCLAIMER

*If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or is in crisis, get help right away. For a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you have an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911.

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