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It’s Easy to put your own needs to the side to support a loved one. But in order to continue to care for others, you need to take care of yourself.
Your emotional health
To avoid emotional burnout:
· Focus on what you are able to provide. It’s normal to feel guilty or that you’re not doing enough. There’s no such thing as a perfect caregiver. Believe that you are doing the best that you can and making the best decisions you can at any given time.
· Give yourself a mental break. Set aside time every day to read, pray or meditate, put your feet up, or practice mindfulness. Carving time out for your own self care is critical when most of your time is dedicated to caring for someone else.
· Try to embrace lighthearted moments, even if they are fleeting. Laughter can reduce the physical symptoms of stress.
· Challenge yourself to find aspects of caregiving that you are grateful for. Has it made your relationship stronger?
· Celebrate the small victories and applaud your own efforts.
· Don’t try to do everything yourself. Even if it is talking to someone to vent.
Your physical health
To help maintain the stamina needed to care for your loved ones:
· Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals.
· Be active each day, even if it is just a 15-minute walk.
· Spend time outside and open windows when possible.
· Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep. If you’re tired, nap when your love one naps.
· Take care of your own aches and pains before they become more serious.
Your caregiving relationship
Not only is caregiving mentally and physically taxing, but caregiving can strain your relationship.
Keep in following in mind:
· Let yourself feel. Exhaustion, resentment, and guilt are common emotions. You are not a bad person for feeling any of these. Acknowledge the feelings and don’t push them away.
· Try to roll with the punches. When you expect your relationship to stay exactly as it was, it can lead to frustration and disappointment. Change is natural, especially with caregiving.
· Communicate. No matter what, keep talking. Be honest with each other.
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