The Alzheimer‘s Association is here all day, every day for people facing Alzheimer‘s disease through our 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) and online. Through our free Helpline services, specialists and master’s-level clinicians offer confidential support and information to people living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, caregivers, families and the public.
I'm guessing the resources depend on the state, not sure. But what I do know, is that there should be a way that caregivers could contact each other to vent. IN PERSON. Another real voice that gets the struggle. (and maybe there is, but I just don't know about it). This site is amazing, but sometimes a real conversation with another person is what is really needed. My niece and I have each other, and, I'll admit it, say some possibly inappropriate things. But we both know we adore my Mom more than anything and go to any length to care for her. She comes first.
And I think everyone needs that. A real person, who gets it, without judgment. Just acceptance for this difficult and confusing journey that we've chosen to undertake.
Don't know. But, in Florida, you can call "211". It's called a suicide hotline, but you just tell them right away that you are not suicidal and just need someone to talk to because you are overwhelmed with caregiving for someone. I have called twice over 2 years. Each time they stayed on the phone with me, asking questions, and letting me vent, until I calmed down. They do NOT report you to anyone as a suicide risk, or ask you for personal details, or ever call you back. I assume they know my phone number, and maybe the call was recorded, so they know who I am, but they assured me that it was fine to call just because of being overwhelmed and that I should call back anytime I wanted.
Same sort of system here, called 'Lifeline'. They take all sorts of calls, even just from lonely people if they have enough staff available (mostly volunteers).
And I think everyone needs that. A real person, who gets it, without judgment. Just acceptance for this difficult and confusing journey that we've chosen to undertake.