Denial - about the disease and its effect on the person who’s been diagnosed. I know mom’s going to get better.

Anger - at the person with Alzheimer’s or other: that no effective treatment or cures currently exist, and that people don’t understand what’s going on. If he asks me that question one more time I’ll scream!

Social withdrawal - from friends and activities that once brought pleasure. I don’t care about getting together with the neighbors anymore.

Anxiety - about facing another day and what the future holds. What happens when he needs more care than I can provide?

Depression - begins to break your spirit and affect your ability to cope. I don’t care anymore.

Exhaustion - makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. I’m too tired for this.

Sleeplessness - caused by a never-ending list of concerns. What if she wanders out of the house or falls and hurts herself?

Irritability - leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and reactions. Leave me alone!

Lack of concentration - makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. I was so busy, I forgot we had an appointment.

Health problems - begin to take their toll, both mentally and physically. I can’t remember the last time I felt good.