Supporting Family Caregivers in November: Recognizing the Unsung Heroes

Every day across Oregon, thousands of parents and caregivers quietly pour their hearts into supporting children and youth with complex needs. They’re navigating appointments, advocating at schools, coordinating care, and managing the day-to-day realities that come with raising a child who needs extra support. They do it out of love  –  but often, without recognition.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the compassion, strength, and resilience of these unsung heroes. It’s also a reminder to pause and check in on those who give so much of themselves, and to encourage caregivers to care for their own wellbeing, too.

The Weight Caregivers Carry

Caring for a child or youth with complex needs can be a full-time commitment layered on top of work, relationships, and personal responsibilities. Many caregivers experience fatigue, isolation, and guilt when their own needs fall to the bottom of the list.

But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Caring for yourself is not selfish — it’s what allows you to continue caring for those you love.

Family caregivers deserve the same empathy, understanding, and support they so freely give to others.

Three Ways to Support Yourself (or a Caregiver You Know)

1️⃣ Connect with others who understand.
Isolation is one of the biggest challenges for caregivers. Finding a peer — someone who’s walked a similar path — can help you feel less alone. Oregon Family Support Network’s Family Support Specialists are parents and caregivers themselves, ready to listen and share guidance that’s grounded in lived experience.

2️⃣ Make time for small resets.
You don’t need a weekend getaway to recharge. A short walk, deep breathing, a favorite playlist, or five quiet minutes can make a world of difference. Consistent micro-breaks build resilience over time.

3️⃣ Celebrate small victories.
Every small step matters — the therapy appointment you made, the meltdown you navigated, the advocacy call you didn’t give up on. Take time to notice your efforts and give yourself credit for showing up, again and again.

How Communities Can Help

Supporting family caregivers doesn’t require grand gestures — it’s about awareness and kindness.

• Check in regularly. A simple “How are you doing, really?” goes a long way.

• Offer help without judgment. Whether it’s dropping off a meal or babysitting for an hour, small acts relieve big pressure.

• Listen before offering advice. Sometimes, the best support is simply being present.

You Are Not Alone

At Oregon Family Support Network, we believe every parent and caregiver deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Through peer-to-peer connections, family education, and advocacy, we walk alongside Oregon families as they navigate complex systems, because no one should have to do it alone.

If you’re a caregiver who needs support, or if you know someone who does, reach out. There’s a community here for you.

Visit OFSN.org  or call 1-833-732-4267 to connect with a Family Support Specialist, join a support group, sign up for a training or learn more about available resources.