If the person you are caring for has a terminal illness, there is no time to waste. Intimate relationships can be formed very quickly with those who come into their lives to provide care. This inevitably evokes a sense of personal vulnerability to disease and death and forces caregivers to examine our lives for meaning and fulfillment. It is often difficult to witness a person who was vigorous and healthy deteriorate to someone needing help walking, bathing, eating and dressing. Because of the intensive time and sense of personal commitment the caregiver may utilize a variety of coping mechanisms.
Some people cope by denying their feeling and seek methods to emotionally distance themselves.
Finding a balance between these extremes is imperative. Seeking balance is an individual quest. It is important to recognize that there is something beyond feeling helpless and overwhelmed. There are a variety of support services available which provide hands on physical care, respite care and emotional support. Taking advantage of help frees designated caregivers for time for ourselves.