Sunday, 17 May 2020

Is Anxiety Contagious?

If you are spending a lot of time caring for an elderly loved one, you have likely experienced elevated levels of anxiety more frequently than you are used to. You may have noticed that your loved one has experienced the same. This might have led you to wonder whether it is true that anxiety is contagious and, if so, how you can break the cycle. Here are the facts.

Yes – anxiety is indeed contagious

Humans are social and empathetic beings. Ultimately, this means that we tend to mirror the emotions of others who are close to us. There are some studies which demonstrate that our strong desire for connection and understanding often leads us to subconsciously mimic other’s feelings and behaviours in an effort to foster trust and bonding.

However, it is more than that. When experiencing feelings of anxiety, our entire manner changes. Our tone of voice is different, our body language is off, and our facial expressions give it all away. It is because of this that even seniors with cognitive disorders, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, can pick up on negative emotions. These negative emotions can infiltrate daily life for both caregiver and senior, leading to a vicious cycle that can impact relationships, as well as both mental and physical health.

How to rid your home of mutual anxiety for good

First and foremost, you need to find a positive outlet for any stress and ‘bad’ feelings that might accumulate throughout the day. Think exercise, meditation, starting a fun new hobby, etc. It is also important to identify where the anxiety is coming from. Is it because you fear uncertainty regarding your loved one’s wellbeing? Or is it because you are trying to juggle too many responsibilities at once – a reality for many caregivers who are looking after their aging parents.

If it is the latter, it can provide tremendous relief to seek out additional support in the form of in-home care. Having a helping hand can relieve some of the pressure and make it easier to connect more positively with your loved one and effectively nurture your relationship.

Above all else, learn to be kind to yourself. Stop feeling guilty, breathe, and take time to unwind. You’re doing an incredible job!

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