Just as depression endangers your care receiver's recovery, it also endangers your health and well-being. Depression increases your risk in every major disease category, particularly cardiovascular disease.

Here are the symptoms of depression:

• persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
• feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
• decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
• difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• appetite and/or weight changes
• thoughts of death or suicide, or suicidal attempts
• restlessness, irritability

If you have five or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks, depression may be the cause. Talk to a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist about treatment options. The most effective treatment combines medication with talking therapy.

• Claim time for yourself and make sure you use it; otherwise, you will burn out and the person in your care will suffer.
• Make and keep doctor's appointments for yourself; otherwise, when you get sick, everyone will suffer.
• Join a caregiver support group; otherwise, you and the person in your care will suffer isolation.
• Take advantage of respite care opportunities, otherwise, when you break down the person in your care will suffer.