November is National Family Caregivers Month

During National Family Caregivers month, we at Zen Caregiving Project want family caregivers to know: we see you. We understand that when you are a family caregiver, the one you care for is always at the front of mind especially when you are not with them. We know that if you are a family caregiver, you are probably a woman (more than 50% are), but you may not yet be middle-aged or even an adult (more than a million are under 18). If you are a family caregiver we know that you are working tirelessly (most family caregivers have a job in addition to their caregiving role). We know that you likely do not have adequate time to tend to your own needs (not able to socialize, maintain relationships, and care for yourself as easily as before you became a caregiver). 

Family caregivers are all around us. With more than 53 million Americans providing unpaid care for a family member, there is every likelihood that when we go to work, buy groceries, grab a cup of coffee, work out at the gym, worship, attend a school event, or pick up a package, we are interacting with people who are also caring for a family member or loved one. What would it be like if we could see this, and even discuss it? What would it be like if the people who leave work only to return to a whole other realm of providing and coordinating care could be recognized and better yet, supported and appreciated? 

This month, join us in honoring the heartfelt dedication and hard work family caregivers do every day. If you know someone who is caring for a loved one, take a moment to acknowledge their role, lend them a listening ear, or simply say thank you. Being a family caregiver can be a source of joy and closeness between loved ones, and most family caregivers want to give their loved ones all they can, but it is not an easy road. A little connection and acknowledgement go a long way.