E72: Dealing With The Fear And Uncertainty As A Caregiver

In today’s caregiver life, fear and uncertainty looks so different to you and I.  

What is caregiver fear and uncertainty?

Uncertainty is the inability to know what will happen in the future. Your loved one’s disease and treatment can be scary and unpredictable. Feelings of fear and uncertainty among caregivers are normal. But, they can become a problem if you feel you have no control over life, which can cause anxiety, stress, depression or anger as a result.  

What can you do about your fear and uncertainty?

Here are some tips:

• Don’t try to deny your fear. Talk about it.
• Try to avoid thinking about "what if's." Focus on the aspects of your life that you have control over.   Go back to Episode 66 - Do You have the "if only" or "what if" syndrome? 
• Try not to let your emotions and fears sway your decisions and thoughts
• Seek a professional if you can overcome your fears or it's causing stress and burnout.  
• Give your mind a break. Distract yourself with a book, a movie or a friendly conversation, or ask a friend to spend time with you doing something fun.
• Find a support group like the Caregiver Cup Podcast Community
• Write down a list of things you’re grateful for. Look at why you are having the fears.

Know that you can’t predict how all of this will evolve. It won’t be easy, but trust that whatever happens, you will find the courage to face each challenge as it comes. You will have the wisdom to make the difficult decisions, and you will find the strength to do whatever has to be done. 

So when you hear trick or treat this week - think about the fond memories and take in all the smiles of those little ones.  Enjoy some fun monster music. Listen to some of the ghostbusters music say who you gonna call “fear busters”  - which is you by the way.   I know that’s pretty cheesy but it was fun.  Have a good day and embrace a bit of joy and gratitude.