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Reaching out to others who are in a caring role. I look after my mother with multiple health issues, including depression and anxiety. I feel stuck. I can see the signs that the depression has reared its head but my mum doesn't see it. I really struggle when my mum's mental health suffers. I too battle with depression and anxiety. Emotionally, I am all over the place. Hoping there are some others out there who understand what I'm going through.
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
Unknown userMember
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Hi @Bella1978
Tips on communication with doctors.
Therapeutic Communication And Problem‐Solving
Identify the patient’s problem Discuss what changes can be made and aspects that cannot realistically be changed and ways to cope with them more adaptively Discuss alternative strategies for creating changes the patient desires to make Weigh benefits and consequences of each alternative and help patient select an alternative Encourage patient to implement the change Help patient evaluate outcomes of the change and make modifications as required.
To help identify the problem, giving information in a clear manner is helpful
1. Can you articulate how mum is 'going down hill' - write these observations down. 2. Note any aches, pains being complained about, any other out of the ordinary things? 3. In mental health situations a mood chart is really helpful, some have a spot for daily notes which can be helpful (ie on Mr D's I noted when dog died).
When you go to the doctor you can share these observations and you can let them know, having them written down prompts your memory as the doctor then asks further questions to help them find a cause for the symptoms.
Once the problem is identified, then treatment options are considered and options are weighed up. This is the time to ask questions - once again have them written down, it is easy to forget when you are there. Don't be afraid to say 'I don't understand, can you please explain this to me in another way'
Once options are considered and a treatment is chosen, ensure you understand when a review is to take place, how you will know if treatment has been successful, things you need to watch for in relation to side effects. Write these down too. Drugs always have side effects and risk v benefit needs to be considered. Extra caution needs to be taken as elderly patients are more susceptible to side effects. Once again, don't be afraid to ask.
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
Unknown userMember
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
@Bella1978 Carers Australia might be able to direct you to some resources in relation to caring for an aging parent.
It might also be helpful for you to ramp up your own - if you don't have a case worker you may be able to get similar type help from one of the MI support groups available.
Here is a link to one such group as to how they can help
In response to: Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Unknown userMember
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Hey guys,
@Former-Member good point about @CarersAustralia possibly being able to help out. Sometimes they are around the forums and might swing past here later and give some feedback! Otherwise you can contact them here to ask any questions
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
outlanderSenior Contributor
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
@Bella1978are you ok? i havent seen you online for a day or 2 just checking in to see how your going or need some help
In response to: Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Bella1978Senior Contributor
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
@outlander@Shaz51
thank you both for checking in with me. ive had a really bad couple of days, struggling with mum. she was admitted to mental health clinic yesterday. psych is changing her meds so we'll see if that helps. she seems to be better when she's in the clinic but seems to go downhill when she's at home 😕 thinking i may be causing her distress? another theory is that being at home may be reminding her of what she used to do but can't do anymore. at the clinic she doesnt have those reminders, or worry. just have to take it day by day. how are you both? xxxxxxxxxxx
In response to: Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Bella1978Senior Contributor
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
@Former-Member
thank you so much for providing me with that information.
ive actually made an appt with my counsellor at carers wa for tomorrow as i havent been for a while. plus ive made an appt with one of the advisors to get my head around further services that we can access at home.
i will definitely look into the well ways program for carers.
how are you and Mr D?
xx
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
Unknown userMember
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
I did a carers program, found it really helpful @Bella1978.
Keeping on keeping on here.
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
outlanderSenior Contributor
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
Hey @Bella1978 I think the second therory is more likely. I doubt youd be making it worse 💕 Im glad your mums in the clinic and your able to get some rest and sleep. Im sorry your struggling too but tou have us here anytime you need and im glad youve a psychappt tomorrow too. Your sounding like you need aome extra supports atm. Big hugs ❤❤❤
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
Bella1978Senior Contributor
Re: Seeking mutual support from carers
@outlander Thank u sweetheart 😘
In response to: Seeking mutual support from carers
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