Addiction Among Caregivers
Caring for others can be deeply rewarding, but it can also take a serious toll. The emotional, mental, and physical demands of caregiving often go unnoticed. And while they often prioritize others’ needs, their own well-being may fall by the wayside. For some, substance use becomes a way to cope.
Caregivers and Substance Use Disorder
Caregivers often support people with age-related health concerns, chronic illnesses, or disabilities. While caregiving can be rewarding, the role can lead to burnout and isolation, which can take a toll on mental and physical health.
A study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series B found that, during the COVID-19 pandemic, caregivers in the U.S. were more likely than noncaregivers to report worse physical and mental health. This kind of prolonged stress can increase vulnerability to substance use, especially when combined with limited time for self-care or support.
Caregivers who support loved ones, like aging parents or children with developmental conditions, often carry an additional emotional burden. For example, parents of children on the autism spectrum may face blame or social stigma, leading to feelings of guilt, rejection, and self-doubt, according to a study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Over time, these experiences can contribute to anxiety, depression, and a reduced quality of life.
Research shows that caregivers, particularly women caring for spouses with Alzheimer’s disease, have a higher prevalence of mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety. And mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are known risk factors for developing a substance use disorder (SUD). When you combine that with the pressure of caregiving and other responsibilities, the risk only increases.
Addiction Treatment for Caregivers
Effective addiction treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. For caregivers, it’s especially important that treatment plans reflect the realities of their daily lives, including the emotional demands and responsibilities they carry.
In some cases, entering treatment may require finding temporary support to take over caregiving duties. Rehab programs often have case managers who can help connect people to community services like adult day care, child care, transportation assistance, or disability leave from work.
Mental health support is also key when looking for addiction treatment for caregivers. Because many caregivers deal with high levels of stress, treatment programs often include therapy focused on coping strategies, stress management, and emotional resilience. Research suggests that “active coping,” which involves addressing problems directly instead of avoiding them, can reduce distress and improve outcomes for caregivers.
There are several levels of care available, depending on a person’s needs:
- Medical detox, while not always necessary, can help manage withdrawal symptoms for people physically dependent on a substance.
- Inpatient addiction treatment involves living at the treatment facility and receiving 24/7 care. This can be ideal for those with severe addiction or co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Outpatient addiction treatment programs involve living at home or in a sober living facility while receiving care at a facility during the day.
- Rehab aftercare, which includes various services following a formal treatment program. Services include things like counseling, peer support groups, and sober living homes to help maintain recovery after formal treatment ends.
No matter the level of care, a personalized approach is important. A comprehensive treatment plan may include behavioral therapies, counseling, peer groups, and medication as needed to support the whole person.
Start the Recovery Journey
Caregivers give so much of themselves to support others, but they deserve care, too. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, you’re not alone. Addiction treatment for caregivers is available, and recovery is possible. Call us at for free, confidential help. Our admissions navigators are available 24/7 to answer your questions, verify your health insurance coverage for rehab, and connect you with the right treatment program across our nationwide network of facilities. There’s no wrong time to ask for help. We’re here when you’re ready.