Practicing self-care becomes even more important when you’re taking care of someone else as well. A subtle shift can take place over time leading caregivers to feel burned out, resentful, and hopeless about the endless tasks and demands.
If this sounds familiar, maybe it’s time to think about yourself and how to gain a new perspective.
Caregiving inevitably changes relationships. Even the healthiest and strongest relationship can’t stay the same when illness or age add more burdens. Recognize this as the nature of the work. If the caregiving relationship has deteriorated significantly, think about asking for professional help or guidance in order to preserve your personal relationship with your loved one.
Caregiving can lead to negative thoughts and frustration. You may feel guilty that you’re not doing more or that your patience is thin. Meditation, counseling, or simply confiding in a friend can help you gain insight into your thinking. Begin to find the positive and dwell on your strengths as a caregiver. Also, remind yourself that your circumstances and demands have changed, which means your mindset will likely shift as well, and that’s okay.
Not every little thing can be the most important. When we’re overwhelmed, we may believe every problem or challenge must be resolved at once. With caregiving, this is a myth. Take a moment to list the daily demands and the long-term goals. What can wait? Are some tasks simply beyond your control? List what’s on your mind and then organize according to necessity and time.
Getting enough sleep and eating well are the basics of self-care. One study found that 76 percent of caregivers, particularly female, had problems sleeping due to anxiety, depression, and fatigue. A good night’s sleep can go a long way to helping you see the world in a better light.
Rituals offer healing and they can reflect your own interest. Here are just a few ideas:
As simple as it sounds, a regular self-indulgent ritual can alter life’s routine or rhythm, leading to a fresh outlook and renewed sense of wellbeing.
If you have a lot of questions, that’s OK. Take your time to ensure you understand your doctor’s answers and recommendations. Talking with your doctor can help you find and address any potential health issues, allowing you to get healthier more quickly.
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Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.
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