Mental Health and Counseling for Caregivers

How counseling can help

Talking with a counselor can help you manage the challenges of caregiving. Counseling (therapy) gives you a safe place to talk about your thoughts and feelings without being judged. It can be done one-on-one and in a group.

Counselors can help you manage difficult emotions. They can teach healthy ways to cope with stress and solve problems. They can also help you communicate better and take better care of yourself. This can help lower stress and reduce caregiver burnout.

You do not need to have a mental health condition to benefit from counseling. Many caregivers use counseling to manage stress, adjust to changes, and find support during a difficult time.

Types of counselors

Several types of counselors can provide counseling. These include licensed counselors, psychologists, clinical social workers, and psychiatrists. If spiritual support is important to you, you may also choose to talk with a faith leader or other trusted spiritual advisor. Some cancer centers have oncology social workers. They understand the challenges of cancer and can connect you with counseling, support groups, financial help, and other services.

It may take time to find a counselor who is a good fit for you. You may want to ask whether they have experience helping people manage serious illnesses, caregiving, grief, or family stress.

You may also be able to meet with a counselor by video or phone (telehealth) This can make it easier to get care while caring for your loved one.

Support groups

Support groups bring together people who are going through similar experiences. Joining a caregiver support group can help you feel less alone. You can share your experiences, learn from others, and encourage each other.

Support groups may meet in person, online, or via phone, making it easier to find one that fits your schedule. Your cancer care team or hospital may be able to help you find a group.

Other ways to support your mental health

Taking care of yourself is an important part of caring for someone else. Even a few minutes of self-care each day can help lower stress, improve your mood, and give you more energy for caregiving.

Try to:

• Get enough sleep.
• Eat healthy foods.
• Be physically active when you can.
• Avoid or limit alcohol use.
• Make time for things you enjoy.
• Stay connected with family and friends.

Ask your friends and family for help when you need it, and accept help when it is offered. Many people want to help but may not know what you need unless you ask.

Many caregivers feel guilty about taking time for themselves. But caring for yourself is not selfish. Taking breaks or using respite care can help you rest and recharge.

Watching someone you love go through cancer can be very hard. Taking care of your own physical and emotional health can help you continue to care for your loved one.

Learn more about other self-care tips for cancer caregivers.

Paying for counseling

Cost should not keep you from getting help. Many health insurance plans cover counseling, but your out-of-pocket costs may vary.

If you do not have insurance or need help paying for counseling, ask your cancer care team about low-cost or free services in your area. Some employers offer free counseling through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). You can also ask counselors if they offer sliding-scale rates based on what you’re able to pay.