ENHANCING CAREGIVER RESILIENCE (original) (raw)

2024, Souvenir Souvenir of the 11th International Conference of Kaivalyadhama on Yoga in Cancer Care: Scope, evidence and evolution

The diagnosis of cancer is extremely traumatic adding to which is its treatment-related toxicity causing psychological distress in patients as well as their entire family. The need of the hour is to embrace adjunctive traditional modalities and interventions that may help reduce treatment related distress and improve quality of life. Yoga is one such mind body intervention that is not only gaining popularity but also an extremely beneficial practice. Caregiver (CG) is a person who provides care to people who need help in taking care of themselves. CG may be health professionals, family members, friends, social workers or others. They may provide care at home or in a hospital or other health care setting. CGs provide steady emotional support to care seekers when their journey seems bleak and are also conduits between them and medical professionals fostering a collaborative approach. CGs experience a rollercoaster of emotions as they constantly witness the pain and suffering of their loved ones, suppressing their own agony and struggles leading to emotional exhaustion resulting in chronic stress and burnout. Concept of ‘One Health’ by WHO recognizes the interconnectedness and encompasses a collaborative, multidisciplinary and cross-sectorial approach to ensure overall well-being. In the context of cancer care, this approach involves understanding the symbiotic relationship between patients, CGs and their support systems. Though the task of caregiving is satisfying, it may lead to a decline in health or affect their personal, employment prospects, finances and social life. Stress, depression, sense of hopelessness and insomnia are some of the more commonly cited issues on CG health. It must be noted that the CG health has a significant impact on care recipients too. Hence our primary focus in this context is on improving the health, wellness and quality of life of CGs. This is where complementary approaches such as Yoga can contribute as a powerful tool that addresses not only physical but also mental and emotional needs of those who selflessly care for others. Yoga reorients the feeling of caring and adds up meaning and purpose in the lives of CGs.