If you experience any of these signs of stress on a regular basis, make time to talk to your doctor.

If you experience any of these signs of stress on a regular basis, make time to talk to your doctor.

Denial about the disease and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed.

Anger at the person with Alzheimer’s, anger that no cure exists or anger that people don’t understand what’s happening.

Social withdrawal from friends and activities that once brought pleasure.

Anxiety about the future.

Depression that begins to break your spirit and affects your ability to cope.

Exhaustion that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks.

Sleeplessness caused by a never-ending list of concerns.

Irritability that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and actions.

Lack of concentration that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks.

Health problems that begin to take a mental and physical toll.

Stress management tips:

Know what resources are available: Adult day programs, in-home assistance, visiting nurses and meal delivery are just some of the services that can help you manage daily tasks. Use the Alzheimer’s Association’s online Community Resource Finder or contact your local chapter for assistance in finding Alzheimer’s care resources in your community. Use Alzheimer’s Navigator, the free online tool that helps evaluate your needs, identify action steps and connect with local programs and services.

Get help: Seek the support of family, friends and caregivers going through similiar experiences. Tell others exactly what they can do to help. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900), online message boards and local support groups are good sources of comfort and reassurance.

Use relaxation techniques: Visualization (mentally picturing a place or situation that is peaceful and calm); meditation (which can be as simple as dedicating 15 minutes a day to letting go of all stressful thoughts); breathing exercises (slowing your breathing and focusing on taking deep breaths); progressive muscle relaxation (tightening and then relaxing each muscle group, starting at one end of your body and working your way to the other end).

Source: Alzheimer’s Association