The Quiet Cost of Family Caregiving 

By: Paula Span, The New York Times 

The story of caring for aging family members and friends is not unfamiliar to the average American family. Oftentimes, when a loved one needs additional care for basic day-to-day activities, a family member takes on the burden of caring for the individual, as it is more cost-effective than outsourcing. More than 22 million Americans have made that choice, oftentimes leaving the workforce altogether. But according to a study conducted by a Wayne State University economist, using 8 years of Census Bureau data, employment dropped nearly 8 percent among those who became caregivers, as matched to demographically matched non-caregivers. And outside of unemployment, caregiving impacted individuals in the workforce in many ways, including missed promotions and reduced productivity. 

– by Chris Ejike

“How Can I Tell If I’m Depressed or Burned Out?”

By: Dani Blum, The New York Times 

Many people still ridicule themselves when the time comes to address their own all-consuming exhaustion. A common misconception is that burnout and depression are mutually exclusive. This is simply not true. The World Health Organization includes burnout in the International Classification of Diseases; it is an “occupational phenomenon” that can be improves by removing the primary stressor, typically work, school, and parenting. Meanwhile, depression is a clinical diagnosis, and knowing the difference is crucial. With burnout, you can temporarily remove yourself from your environment and implement coping mechanisms. In contrast, depression — which is often a result of a traumatic life event or rapid change — requires the advice of a mental health professional.

– by Gabriella Salazar

Covid eroded other crucial global health efforts. The world must act.

By Michael Gerson, The Washington Post

Before the Covid pandemic began, the United States was one of the lead countries funding treatment of preventable global diseases. The rise of COVID caused global efforts to be reallocated to slow spread of this disease, leading to the loss of resources for diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. National leaders chose to treat their own people rather than the world’s poorest. This poses the question of whether the few must be sacrificed in order to provide aid to the many. Privileged countries must confront that this is not just a political issue, but a moral one.

– by Madison Woods

Items contributed by: Chris Ejike, Gabriella Salazar, and Madison Woods