Caregiving is often portrayed as an act of love—and it is. But it’s also a role that demands endurance, patience, and resilience. Through my work supporting a variety of clients and my own past experience caring for my parents, I have a unique understanding of how much caregivers are carrying—often quietly and without acknowledgment.
Many caregivers support loved ones through mental health challenges, dementia, trauma responses, changing abilities, or sudden crises. The role stretches emotional and physical energy in ways that are rarely visible to anyone outside the household.
The reality can be exhausting. There is constant worry, long days, sleepless nights, and a persistent sense of responsibility that can feel overwhelming. It is normal for caregivers to experience frustration, resentment, or grief—these feelings are not signs of failure. They are signs of being human in a role that often asks more than any one person can sustainably give.
And yet… caregiving is also full of small, meaningful moments. A shared laugh, a calmer conversation, a gentle touch, or a brief moment of clarity can remind caregivers why they keep showing up. These moments don’t erase the weight of the role, but they do highlight the deep connections that make the effort worthwhile.
It is essential for caregivers to remember that their own well-being matters. Your emotions are valid. Your limits are real. You are not meant to carry everything alone, and seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it is a necessary step in sustaining yourself and the relationship you care for.
If you are a caregiver, I encourage you to take a moment for yourself today: breathe, reflect, and acknowledge the work you are doing. Caregiving is a complex balance of challenge and connection, and you deserve guidance, support, and moments of respite.
I work with a variety of clients, including caregivers, and I am here to help you navigate the weight of your role and create space to breathe.
— Annika
Creating space for healing
Annika Schaefer
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