At a recent writers conference, I met a psychiatrist who often ministers to caregivers as well as their family members.
“I have several resources I offer caregivers,” she said. “I’d be happy for you to share them with your readers.”
Yes!
If you were suddenly thrust into full-on caregiving mode as I was, you’re probably overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn. Busy with caring for our loved ones as well as life in general, most of us don’t have time to research caregiving issues, so it’s nice to have it all in one neat package.
The five links below include everything from government and community services to tips on self-care, medical care management, and legal and financial planning. Two of the links address an often-overlooked area of caregiving—caring for the mentally ill—and the last addresses stress management. I would have loved to have this information when I cared for my parents and mother-in-law.
One of the resources listed below is from an insurance site. I’m not affiliated with this company and neither endorse nor censure it, but apparently insurance companies are a good resource for caregivers. I wanted to include it as an example. My psychiatrist friend said:
“Many insurance providers offer caregiver support programs. Encourage your [readers] to contact the insurance company of the person they’re caring for and ask specifically about available caregiver resources.”
We’re all in this together, so I hope you check out these clickable links, pray about where God would lead you, and find help for your caregiving journey.
United Healthcare Example:
https://www.uhc.com/health-and-wellness/caregiver-resources
Government Resources:
Mental Health Support:
https://www.nami.org/your-journey/family-members-and-caregivers/
https://mhanational.org/resources/mental-health-resources-for-caregivers/
Stress Management:
And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,”
when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.
Isaiah 30:21 ESV
Helpful information that addresses a variety of issues. Thank you, Tracy, and thanks to your psychiatrist friend.
I was glad to meet such a good resource!