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Dear Medical/Health Reporter,

The issue of "caregiver stress" has been making headlines. It will undoubtedly hold the limelight as the "boomers" age.

The National Council on Aging estimates that more than 7 million adult Americans provide unpaid care to disabled adults in their communities. Another 7 million are long-distance caregivers for older relatives. While providing this care can be rewarding, it may also generate tremendous stress. Research shows that caregivers find it hard to make time for their own health concerns.

How much stress is too much stress?

ß 43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress

ß 75 to 90% of all physician office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.

ß Stress is linked to the six leading causes of death—heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide.

According to research done by the American Psychological Association (APA), some 84% of Americans realize that good mental health plays an important role in their overall health and well-being, yet almost half of Americans don’t know when it’s appropriate to seek professional help.

Psychologists are experts at helping people deal with stress and can advise caregivers how to take care of themselves so they can take care of others. For example, make a list of the help you need and when you need it. Check around for community resources, adult daycare centers, and family or friends who can help out.

As a service to your community, the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Psychologists in Independent Practice would like to offer a psychologist in your area to speak with you on this subject. He/she can help people address the causes of their distress and teach them effective ways to deal with those causes.

Your readers can call toll-free 1-877-603-4000 for a free brochure called "Straight Talk - Choosing a Psychologist." Readers can also use this number for the name of a licensed psychologist in their area.

APA’s Psychologists in Independent Practice represents independent psychologists, each of whom is a doctoral level professional licensed by his or her particular state. When you need to talk to someone who can help, you need an experienced, licensed psychologist.

Sincerely,