Self-Care for AIDS Caregivers

Topic Overview

Providing support for a person who has AIDS can be a stressful and emotional experience. You may feel frustrated if the person doesn't want to take all of the medicine prescribed or if he or she doesn't get better despite your efforts. To help manage feelings of frustration, share your feelings with others, including other caregivers, counselors, clergy, or health professionals. Call your local AIDS service organization for support.

Remember that you are not alone. There are others like you who have gone through this experience before. You can gain knowledge and strength from what they can tell you.

When caring for a loved one who is sick, it is important not to ignore your own needs. If you don't take care of yourself, you will not have the inner resources to care for anyone else.