As Singapore celebrates its 2024 National Day Parade under the theme “Together, As One United People,” the focus on collective strength and unity resonates deeply with the importance of mental health in our society.
While much attention is given to individuals facing mental health challenges, an often-overlooked aspect is the emotional toll on their caregivers—those who provide unwavering support, often at the cost of their own well-being.
In fact, a 2020 national survey on caregivers in Singapore revealed that 75% of caregivers for individuals with mental health conditions feel the need for temporary separation from the person they care for, underscoring the intense strain they endure.
The Emotional Challenges of Caregiving
Promises Healthcare, a leading mental health provider in Singapore, is dedicated to addressing the needs of these unsung heroes.
Their approach emphasises not only the care of individuals with mental health conditions but also the vital support required for the caregivers themselves.
Dr. Joseph Leong, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist at Promises Healthcare, highlights the significance of this dual focus, stating, “The strength of a community is reflected in how it cares for its most vulnerable members. Similarly, the strength of a family is reflected in members caring for one another through troubles and trials, often affecting everyone involved.”
Caregiving for someone with a mental health condition is a role fraught with emotional challenges. According to Dr. Leong, caregivers often face chronic stress due to the demanding and unpredictable nature of their responsibilities.
This stress can permeate all aspects of their lives, including work and family relationships, leading to a sense of isolation and fatigue.
Financial concerns also weigh heavily on caregivers, with many feeling financially responsible for their loved ones. This added pressure can strain family dynamics and exacerbate the emotional toll.
Depression and burnout are common among caregivers, with nearly 20% of family caregivers suffering from some form of depression. Social isolation further compounds these issues, as the demands of caregiving leave little time for social interactions, leading to loneliness and alienation.
Recognising and Addressing Caregiver Burnout
One of the critical steps in supporting caregivers is helping them recognise when their own mental health is being adversely affected.
Dr. Leong outlines several key indicators of caregiver burnout, including emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.
Emotional exhaustion manifests as persistent fatigue and a sense of being drained by caregiving duties.
Depersonalisation occurs when caregivers become emotionally detached from the person they care for, leading to irritability and a lack of connection.
A reduced sense of personal accomplishment can leave caregivers feeling ineffective and frustrated, further diminishing their well-being.
At Promises Healthcare, caregivers are supported through comprehensive assessments, individual and group counselling, and workshops designed to help them manage these challenges.
By recognising the early signs of burnout and seeking support, caregivers can significantly improve their quality of life and continue to provide the care their loved ones need.
The Importance of Setting Boundaries
One of the most crucial strategies for caregivers is setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. Boundaries help protect caregivers from burnout by allowing them to manage their responsibilities while ensuring they have time for self-care.
Dr. Leong emphasises that boundaries are essential for maintaining healthy relationships between caregivers and those they care for. Without clear boundaries, caregivers may become overwhelmed, leading to feelings of resentment and exhaustion.
Practical tips for setting boundaries include clearly defining what is manageable for the caregiver, communicating these boundaries with compassion, and seeking help from other family members or professional services.
Creating a structured routine that delineates caregiving time from personal time can also help prevent burnout. At Promises Healthcare, workshops and therapy sessions are available to help caregivers establish and maintain these boundaries, providing them with the tools they need to stay healthy and resilient.
Building a Supportive Community
The 2024 National Day Parade theme, “Together, As One United People,” is a timely reminder of the importance of community in supporting our most vulnerable members.
By recognising the vital role of caregivers and providing them with the necessary support, we can ensure that they, too, thrive as part of a united community.
Dr. Leong’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the emotional challenges faced by caregivers and the importance of empowering them with the knowledge and resources they need.
As Singapore continues to emphasise collective strength and unity, it is crucial that we extend this support to those who care for others, ensuring a resilient and flourishing society for all.
Through continued awareness and comprehensive support, caregivers can be uplifted, ensuring they have the strength to care for their loved ones while maintaining their own well-being. By doing so, we honour their invaluable contributions and uphold the spirit of unity that lies at the heart of our nation.
