The codependency of the family caregiver of people with chronic disease

Identifier:  TFG:3160

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFG3160

Authors:  Bertran Suárez, Maria

Abstract:
Codependency can be understood from various points of view, but all of them agree that the codependent person develops an obsessive and controlling personality, addictive and dependent towards a specific person, with serious repercussions for both. Likewise, an increasing number of family members are forced to develop the role of informal caregivers of the chronically ill patient. As a result of the comprehensive care provided over the years, the patient ends up developing high levels of stress and anxiety, leading him or her to suffer from overload. In short, co-dependence in the family caregiver leads to a deterioration in the quality of life of both the caregiver and the chronically ill patient, affecting both the social, psychological, and biological environment, so the situation requires a comprehensive biopsychosocial intervention. Finally, when the chronic patient reaches the end of life, the codependent caregiver will have to face the new reality with certain difficulties that will require, once again, specialized medical and social support and, at this point, the role of the social worker is essential.