How to ease the emotional toll of caregiving for members

Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults are unpaid caregivers to a family member or friend who has an illness or disability, and 1 in 4 are part of the sandwich generation raising children of their own at the same time.^1,3,4

On average, U.S. caregivers spend 20 hours a week for up to 8 years helping the person(s) in their care with basic daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, paying bills, taking medications, going to appointments and more.⁶And most have full-time paying jobs, too.^1,5,6

Caregivers are under a lot of pressure and stress, leading many to struggle with their own health and well-being. It’s important and satisfying to help a loved one in need, but it can also be tiring and lead to health risks.

Studies show caregivers are more stressed and have more mental health risks than noncaregivers.⁷ And a recent survey found 34% of caregivers experience severe mental distress.⁸

Understandably, many caregivers struggle emotionally and physically. While they may feel grateful they can help those in their care, they’re overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted by the responsibility. They may also become so focused on taking care of those in their charge that they don’t attend to their own needs. Over time, the day-to-day toll can affect their mental health and well-being.

If caregivers don’t address their severe long-term stress, they’re more likely to feel anxious, depressed or burned out. They’re also more likely to have heart problems, digestive issues, trouble sleeping and memory problems, among other health concerns. Existing physical and mental health conditions can get worse, too.

For those who are trying to hold down a paying job at the same time, the added responsibility and stress results in lower workplace performance and productivity than noncaregivers.⁹

In addition to higher rates of presenteeism and absenteeism, caregivers are more likely to leave early, arrive late, change or reduce their hours, take unpaid leave and quit their jobs.^2,10 The annual productivity loss due to caregiving-related workforce disruptions is estimated to be $30 billion.¹⁰

Plan sponsors can’t change or control a member’s personal situation, they can help them get caregiver tools and support to manage stress, burnout and anxiety.

Optum helps people find personalized, evidence-based resources to support them with their caregiving responsibilities and improve their own mental health.