Caregiver Support

Caregiver Resources We Offer at Siteman:

• Clinical reviewed cancer type and treatment & therapies resources 
• Support Groups
• Virtual Support Services 
• Social Work 

Common Feelings Cancer Caregivers Report

There are so many feelings caregivers experience. These emotions shift from day to day and moment to moment. At some points you will feel joy and gratitude, and at others you can feel hopeless or angry.

Know that every feeling is okay and healthy to express. If you are caring for someone with cancer, it is important to accept and address your feelings as they come up.

Emotions can act as clues to show what you need to do for yourself, including seeking support from a professional. Caregivers of Siteman patients can find support through our online psychological services. View more information or set up an appointment.

How are you feeling?

• Sad that your loved one has been diagnosed with cancer and that your life will change
• Worried that you are not providing the correct care or that you loved one will not get well
• Guilty that you have other responsibilities that prevent helping as much as you would like
• Anxious about the mounting medical bills and increased time off from work
• Hopeless in the face of cancer and its physical effects on your loved one
• Lonely because no one understands what you feel
• Exhausted from working and providing care for your loved one
• Afraid of what may happen to you and your loved one in the future
• Frustrated at your inability to make your loved one well again
• Angry that you are feeling all the above emotions
• Depressed because you are unable to get relief from these emotions
• Grief at the thought of the death of your loved one
• Confident that you really are fulfilling a valuable role

It is quite normal to feel all these emotions at one time or another. Being aware will help you find a way to cope with them. It can make your ability to take care of your loved one even stronger.

Self-care Practices for Caregivers

Taking care of yourself is something that you can practice. Setting aside just 10 or 15 minutes each day to nurture yourself strengthens your ability to cope and continue to give support to your loved one.

Ways to add self-care to your routine:

• Take a nap
• Go on a walk
• Keep up with a hobby
• Watch a movie
• Go shopping (in moderation)
• Work in the yard
• Read a book
• Watch a funny movie and laugh 
• Journal
• Carry on with your usual social activities
• Eat healthfully
• Keep a normal sleep schedule
• Exercise
• Keep up with your own medical needs and checkups 
• Pray and/or meditate
• Ask someone to relieve you of your caregiving responsibilities every now and then
• Talk to a mental-health professional, like a psychologist at Siteman Cancer Center
• Find a support system in your community or join a support group for caregivers

What Should I Do If My Loved One with Cancer Needs More Care?

At some point, you and your loved one may need to have a difficult conversation about:

• The level of care they need
• The level of care you can give 

Sometimes, the demands are too much. You might need to bring in more support. Or your loved one may need a higher level of care than you can supply at home. 

It’s an act of love to know when the level of care is beyond what you can do.  There are options you can consider. Siteman’s care team members, like social workers, can help counsel you on what the next best step may look like for you.

Levels of cancer care to consider:

Transitional care 

• Palliative care 
• Hospice care 

Respite care 

• Home health care  
• Private duty 

Learn more about respite care at Cancer Caregiver Support | American Cancer Society.