When the Load Is Too Heavy to Bear
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When our parents become elderly or develop serious health concerns, we often take on the responsibility for their care. While we may be motivated by our love and gratitude for all they have done for us, caregivers need to face some challenges.
Problems can arise when our lives are already full of responsibilities like work, our families, our own health, and limitations.
Adding one more care, which in many cases is 24/7/365, can exhaust us physically and emotionally until we reach our limit and endanger our own health.
Even if we are single and do not work, the fact that our life revolves around caring exclusively for our parents can eventually result in our dealing with caregiver syndrome, leaving us exhausted or becoming seriously ill. Other symptoms of this syndrome include stress, anxiety, fatigue, sadness, poor sleep, frustration, feeling overwhelmed, depression, and feelings of guilt and anger. It can even manifest in physical pain, muscular aches, headaches, and more.
The problem becomes greater when family members are not available to take turns helping or there is no money to hire someone as support.
Despite this, we must seek some kind of help.
Being a caregiver is not easy. Another problem caregivers face is a sense of guilt when delegating part of the care to another person.
We must remember that we are a temple of the Holy Spirit, and we must take care of ourselves for the good of our parents and our families.
To continue supporting them, we must realize we cannot do it alone.
If we fall apart with exhaustion—everyone loses.
The example of Moses provides us with wise counsel.
Perhaps God is whispering to you, “The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone” (Exodus 18:18, NIV). Then ask Him to show you where help can be found.
He will provide the strength and wisdom you need.
He will carry you through this difficult time.
Remember, take care of the caregiver, and everyone will be blessed.
Maite Lavado
