How You Can Support Good Mental Health in Caregivers of Adults With IDDs

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to shine a light on the needs of people who spend much of their time caring for others. This is especially important when it comes to supporting the caregivers of adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs). 

Caring for an adult with IDDs is an act of love — but it can also be emotionally and physically exhausting. Many caregivers and parents of adults with disabilities experience chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and even burnout, especially when support is limited. Fortunately, there are ways individuals and communities can offer caregiver support that protects the mental health and well-being of these dedicated caregivers.

Acknowledge Their Efforts

Caregivers often feel invisible or undervalued. A simple acknowledgment of their efforts and accomplishments can go a long way. Recognizing a caregiver’s role and validating their emotions helps reduce feelings of isolation and guilt.

Encourage Self-Care and Respite

Many caregivers put their own needs last. Encouraging them to engage in self-care activities such as taking breaks, eating well, exercising, and getting quality sleep can improve their mental health. Offering to step in so they can enjoy a few hours of personal time — even to run errands or relax — is a practical way to help.

Connect Them With Resources and Support Groups

Helping caregivers find local support groups, counseling services, or helplines can be a game changer. Seek out and give the caregiver in your life some tools to manage their own well-being, such as mental health resources and community support networks.

Help With Daily Tasks

Offering to cook a meal, drive to an appointment, or help with household chores can significantly ease a caregiver’s burden. Even small gestures — such as walking their dog or doing laundry — can help a caregiver feel less overwhelmed.

Listen Without Judgment

Sometimes, what a caregiver needs most is a compassionate ear. Letting them vent frustrations or share joys without fear of judgment can provide immense relief. Simply listening to caregivers talk about their experiences can validate their emotions and build trust.

Offer Financial and Insurance Guidance

Financial stress is a common issue for caregivers. Do some research and help them understand their insurance options, or connect with professionals who can walk them through disability benefits and long-term care planning.

Supporting a caregiver doesn’t require grand gestures — consistent, thoughtful actions can make all the difference. By lightening their emotional and physical load, we not only uplift their mental health but also ensure that the adults with IDDs they care for receive more compassionate, sustained care in return.

Support Mental Wellness in Caregivers With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!