Caring for a loved one can be a true a joy, yet can also be a heavy burden.
It is difficult to watch your loved one suffer. Caregiving, many times, requires so much time and energy that you suddenly realize you are running on fumes. Below are some tips to help you recharge and decrease the stress of caregiving.
1. Take some time for yourself.
Whether it is waking up 30 minutes earlier and spending time reading, praying, or journaling, choose a dedicated time and activity that helps you to recharge.
2. Make time to focus on your health as well.
It is easy to be so focused on your loved ones well being that you neglect your own health. With that said, many research studies have found that more than half of caregivers would describe themselves as having fair-poor health themselves. It is important to take some time to focus on your health as well. Utilize other family members or respite services to get regular doctor and dental checkups.
3. Don’t underestimate the power of community and friends.
Going hand in hand with the last tip is seeking out time with trusted friends whom you can confide in. As a caregiver, it can be draining, as well as feel isolating, so it is important to seek out friends who can encourage and remind you that what you have committing to is valuable and appreciated.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you are overwhelmed at all the tasks, you must do and feel pulled in a myriad of directions, see if you can reach out to others for help. Many times, people want to help, but just don’t know how or what to do. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks. An example of this would be to ask your neighbor to do the grocery shopping, while you take your mom to her doctor’s appointment.
5. Take advantage of a support group and/or counseling.
If you are feeling like a bundle of emotions, it’s easy to try to stuff it down and try to move on and focus on the other person. However, don’t underestimate the power of talking to a counselor or therapist. Seeking out a trusted source of wisdom is a powerful thing. Attending a support group is another terrific opportunity to share what is on your heart, but also hear that you are not alone, and that others are going through similar things.
6. Eat balanced meals.
Eating a healthy diet can help improve your overall health and wellbeing. Check out The US Department of Agriculture for in depth nutritional information at www.nutrition.gov.
7. Make time to exercise.
Exercise has been proven to relieve stress and increase mood. If you are unsure how you will have time, try to be creative. An example of this would be to do yoga or stretching while your loved one is napping. You can also involve your loved one in the activities. Try taking a walk together, dancing together, or swimming.
Caregiving can be incredibly stressful at times, but by making time for yourself and doing things that bring you joy, it can help ease the stress of it all, a little at a time.
You might be interested in…
The Ultimate Toolkit
The Ultimate Toolkit is a digital workbook product designed to help you organize the home, medical, financial needs of your loved one so that you can take back control of your time, your energy, and your focus. Spend less time worrying over things and more quality time with your loved one.