Conceptualizations of informal caregiving and its contribution to the visibility of the caregiver

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to reflect on the conceptualizations of informal caregiving and its contribution to the visibility of the caregiver. It highlights the need to publicize the work of the informal caregiver with special emphasis on gender, stress management, development of coping strategies, self-care, improvement of sleep quality, and the time they devote to their work. Reflection was made based on the Caregiver Care Manual for people with mental disorders and/or chronic disabling diseases and the international Care Policies, which bring together the theoretical aspects to conceptualize the topic and achieve the visibility of the caregiver. It is inherent to prioritize caregivers within the health system as subjects of care with a gender approach from the promotion, prevention, and care of mental health.