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Family Caregiving Home

"If I had done something differently, things would probably have been better" is a statement caregivers often make. How can a caregiver deal with guilt associated with their caregiving responsibilities and decisions?

Last Updated: April 08, 2008

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Caregivers often say to themselves "what if," "if only," and "should I" until it becomes habit forming as they rethink their role as caregiver. This is only natural but can be overwhelming as they deal with the guilt they impose on themselves.

Below are some options that can be used to deal with the feelings of guilt:

* Admit mistakes. Saying "I'm sorry" can be healing.

* Correct the situation. Do what you can to make amends.

* Forgive yourself.

* Ask for forgiveness.

* Learn from the experience. Ask yourself "What can I learn from this?"

* Seek counseling.

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