There’s a popular stereotype that caregivers must be cheerful, loving and self-sacrificing at all times and if you’re not then you’re doing it wrong. You may even be shamed by others if you try to voice negative feelings. “I don’t know how this started but it’s time to let this go – taking care of another human being is incredibly difficult,” says Dr Jennifer Wolkin, a clinical neuropsychologist and assistant professor of psychology at NYU. You might feel helpless, sad, lonely, left out, upset, or even angry. “Those feelings are valid and you shouldn’t feel guilty or ashamed for feeling that way,” she says. Instead of letting difficult emotions fester, allow yourself to feel them and vent about them to someone who can be understanding and compassionate.