Posts

Image
  The Invisible Struggle: The Mental Health and Knowledge Gap Among Family Caregivers in Africa In Africa, the role of family caregivers—especially those tending to the elderly, terminally ill, and individuals with acquired disabilities—is often overlooked. Rooted deeply in cultural expectations, caregiving is seen as an obligation rather than a responsibility that requires support. While the focus remains on the well-being of the sick, the physical, emotional, and psychological toll on caregivers is frequently ignored, leaving them trapped in a cycle of neglect, burnout, and lack of adequate knowledge. The Burden of Cultural Expectations In many African societies, the duty of caregiving falls on family members, often women, who are expected to provide care without question. This expectation stems from strong familial bonds, religious beliefs, and societal norms that emphasize communal responsibility. While this fosters a sense of belonging, it also creates a silent burden on careg...