Problem Solving

Taking a Problem Solving Orientation

 

by Andy Goldfinger

 

 

Caregivers often feel overwhelmed by the emotional and practical issues they are facing.  How can a person cope with such a situation?  One approach is to engage in “problem solving.”  The following steps might be taken:

 

• • Am I ready to begin thinking in a problem solving mode?  Am I so overwhelmed that I cannot yet do this?  If so … finding caring people who understand what I going through can help be “get out” some of the feelings and frustrations.  I might feel embarrassed by some of the feelings such as anger at the person being cared for.  It can be helpful to find out that such feelings are normal given the stressed I am under.

• • What is my situation?  Who am I caring for?  What is the person’s present condition? What other people are involved?  What kinds of relationships do we have?  How are they reacting?  How long has this been going on?  What do I know and what do I fear about the future?

• • What issues am I facing; what are my needs?  What emotions am I feeling?  What practical needs do I have?  What issues make me feel overwhelmed or powerless?  Can I be as specific as possible in expressing these needs?  Can I write them down?

• • How can these problems be dealt with?  What have I tried so far?  What resources have I consulted?  Who are my emotional supports and can I better take advantage of their presence?  What can be done practically to make the situation more bearable?  Can others in the group share their experiences in a helpful way?  Can we brainstorm together to find approaches?