After two years of dedicating myself entirely to caring for my mother following her stroke, I recently took the leap to re-enter the workforce. It was a decision prompted by my doctor’s concern for my mental health and my father’s offer to step in and help with caregiving. But returning to work has been anything but straightforward. From finding an accommodating employer to emotionally navigating the aftermath of caregiving, this journey has taught me a lot about resilience, balance, and seeking support.
The Challenges of Finding Work as a Caregiver
As a caregiver, my job search came with unique challenges. I needed a position that allowed for part-time hours, was close to home, and offered flexibility for my mother’s medical needs. Finding an employer who could meet these requirements proved difficult. While some hiring managers were understanding, they couldn’t always accommodate my needs.
This struggle is common among caregivers; according to a report by the AARP Public Policy Institute, 60% of caregivers face difficulties balancing work and caregiving responsibilities, and many leave the workforce entirely due to inflexible conditions.
After months of applying, I was fortunate to secure a cashier position at a local hardware store. My manager was compassionate and understanding, a rare find after so many rejections.
Navigating Emotional Challenges in the Workplace
The emotional toll of caregiving doesn’t fade when you step back into the workforce—it evolves. On my first day, I trained under a manager named Mary, who had also recently returned to work after a stroke. Listening to her describe her experience was heart-wrenching. My mother has aphasia and can’t talk about her stroke, so hearing Mary’s story felt like a window into what my mother might have endured.
In the weeks that followed, I met customers who shared their own caregiving and loss experiences. One widow told me about navigating power of attorney issues after her husband’s passing—echoing my own struggles while securing care for my mother. Another widow shared stories about caring for her aging mother. Each conversation struck an emotional chord, leaving me sitting in my car after shifts to cry and process the weight of these connections.
These moments highlighted something I hadn’t fully acknowledged: the PTSD I had developed from the trauma of caregiving. Research from the National Alliance for Caregiving shows that high-stress caregiving situations can lead to symptoms of PTSD, including emotional triggers, anxiety, and exhaustion.
Recognizing the Need for Support
Realizing the impact these experiences had on me, I decided to prioritize my mental health. I scheduled my first therapy appointment to begin processing the grief, stress, and trauma of caregiving. Therapy offers a safe space to unpack these emotions and learn coping strategies for re-entering the workforce while balancing caregiving duties.
If you’re a caregiver considering therapy, options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or trauma-focused therapy can be particularly helpful. Psychology Today’s Therapist Finder is a great tool for locating a therapist near you.
Practical Tips for Caregivers Returning to Work
If you’re navigating the transition back to work, here are some strategies that have helped me:
- Find Flexible Employers: Look for workplaces that understand the unique challenges of caregiving and offer flexible hours.
- Communicate Your Needs: Be honest with your employer about your caregiving responsibilities to establish clear expectations.
- Practice Time Management: Use tools like calendars or task management apps to balance caregiving and work responsibilities.
- Seek Support Networks: Join caregiver support groups or online forums to connect with others who understand your struggles.
- Focus on Mental Health: Therapy, mindfulness, or even a simple daily walk can help reduce stress and build resilience.
Finding Purpose and Resilience
This journey has reminded me that caregiving shapes us in profound ways. The adaptability, empathy, and problem-solving skills I developed over the past two years have made me stronger—even if the process has been emotionally taxing.
Every connection I’ve made at work—whether with my manager, Mary, or the customers who’ve shared their stories—has reaffirmed that I’m not alone. These moments, though heavy, have also been opportunities for healing and growth.
Resources for Caregivers Navigating Work and Mental Health
- Caregiver Action Network: Offers resources for balancing work and caregiving. Visit here.
- AARP Public Policy Institute: Research and advice for working caregivers. Learn more.
- Psychology Today: Find a therapist near you. Search here.
- National Alliance for Caregiving: Resources for caregiver mental health. Explore here.
Returning to work after two years of caregiving is a journey filled with challenges, but it’s also an opportunity for growth. If you’re considering re-entering the workforce, remember to be kind to yourself, seek support, and celebrate small wins along the way. Balancing work and caregiving is no small feat, but it’s possible to find a rhythm that works for you.
Have you experienced a similar journey? I’d love to hear your story or answer any questions in the comments below. Together, we can navigate these challenges and find strength in our shared experiences.
Beyond Stroke Survival 
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