Getting over the Frustration, Anger, and Resentment
For some caregivers that have an unpleasant or traumatic history with the one they are caring for, the anger and resentment toward that person can get in the way of helpful caregiving. It’s important to understand that your care recipient is now becoming a different person, and you need to see this person in a new light. If you find it difficult to overcome these feelings when providing care, we recommend seeking a professional counselor to help you sort out these emotions.
You will also have better success with the techniques we are teaching if you can stay focused in the “here and now.”
Finding something positive in even an unpleasant situation not only makes you feel better about the situation, but actually gives you the opportunity for learning and growth! Granted, there are times when you need to allow yourself to feel bad, such as after the loss of a loved one or something equally dramatically life altering. But the goal in this section is to help you identify and challenge negative thoughts that may come up when facing everyday stressful situations. In other words, through this program you will learn how to use your thoughts and feelings in positive and constructive ways.
During this process, you might even start to notice certain patterns or common themes in the type of thoughts you have and even that these thoughts occur in only certain caregiving situations that are particularly difficult for you. Take note of those moments! You’ll need this information later on.
Alzheimer's Assn.