Caregiver resentment is a feeling of unfairness or irritation
- Resentment often feels sarcastic and justice seeking
- Feelings of resentment can come on suddenly at the time of diagnosis or creep in over time.
- Resentment is often tied to a rising tide of unchecked disappointment.
- For the reluctant caregiver, caring for a relative more out of obligation than love is a clear path to resentment.
- If the caregiver is alone in their role, resentment will often build against those who are not taking on their piece of the load.
- For many, however, it’s a general sense of resentment toward the overall situation.
- Many caregivers feel guilt or shame about these feelings and therefore, try to stuff these feelings rather than acknowledge to themselves or supportive others.
- The failure to process this resentment can lead to conflict, mental and medical stress related illness, addictive behaviors, poor sleep and overwhelm.
- A good process provides a safe and appropriate forum for the caregiver to acknowledge and process feelings of resentment.