Family caregivers are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system, providing love, support, and hands-on care to those who need it most. But behind the scenes, many caregivers are quietly struggling with their own health, especially their mental well-being.

According to a recent report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC), the number of Americans providing care has surged by 45%, with 63 million people now serving as family caregivers. For the first time, the report evaluated caregivers’ own health—and the findings are sobering. Nearly 1 in 5 caregivers (20%) report fair or poor health directly linked to their caregiving responsibilities.

Source: “Exclusive: AARP Report Finds 45% Increase in Americans Providing Care” by Paul Wynn, AARP, published July 24, 2025

Are Family Caregivers Prone to Experiencing Depression?

One of the most serious health risks facing caregivers is depression. While many associate depression with feeling “blue” or “down in the dumps,” major depressive illness is far more complex. It’s a whole-body condition that can affect every aspect of life—emotionally, physically, and cognitively.

Depression isn’t something you can simply “snap out of.” It’s not a sign of weakness, and it’s not something you should try to go through alone. 

What Symptoms Should Family Caregivers Watch For?

If you or someone you know is a caregiver, be alert to these signs of depression—especially if they persist for two weeks or more:

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or “empty” feelings
• Crying spells without a clear cause
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Fatigue or feeling “slowed down”
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Appetite changes and weight loss or gain
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Chronic aches and pains that don’t respond to treatment

If you experience five or more of these symptoms, or if they’re interfering with your ability to function, it’s time to seek help. Depression is treatable, and getting support is a sign of strength—not failure.

Final Thoughts

Caregiving is a profound act of love, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your own health. At Tillery Compassionate Care, we offer an extensive range of family support and respite care services for families facing these difficult struggles. The AARP report shines a light on the growing number of caregivers and the urgent need to support them—not just in their role, but in their well-being.

For additional information on the web:  Caregiver Action Network: Resources for Family Caregivers