Are you caring for a loved one of any age who has Alzheimer’s, or a chronic or life-threatening illness, a physical or developmental disability, or a mental health disorder?
Are you a male trying to navigate the challenges of caregiving?
Are you in the sandwich generation, caring for a parent while raising a school-age child who is anxious about their parent’s health and who doesn’t understand why you no longer can “be there” for them?
Do you feel exhausted, stressed, or helpless some or much of the time?
Do you get angry and then feel guilty about getting angry?
Do you wish there were others with whom you could share your experiences, thoughts, concerns, and questions, who understand our faith, culture, and community?
Are you so overwhelmed that you aren’t even sure what questions to ask?
On four consecutive Tuesday evenings in September, the Philoptochos Department of Social Services will conduct a Caregiver Support Group for Orthodox Christians nationwide caring for a loved one of any age who may be elderly, chronically ill, or disabled. The group will meet over Zoom on September 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm EST.
Led by professionals in a confidential, nonjudgmental, and safe environment, we will discuss best practices to help family caregivers manage the physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges their loved ones face, and identify resources to ease their caregiving journey. Topics include the importance of self-care; ways to manage rollercoaster emotions; family dynamics in caregiving and decision-making; safety planning; long-distance and holiday caregiving; financial concerns; and preparing for the future. The final session, led by the Rev. Dr. Harry Pappas, will explore how faith, prayer, spirituality, and cultural traditions can deepen a caregiver’s understanding and strengthen their resilience.
If you feel exhausted, stressed, or helpless, wish there were someone who understands what you’re going through to talk to, or are so overwhelmed that you’re not even sure what questions to ask, please join us. Space is limited, so don’t delay!
