The role of caregiver can be both physically and emotionally draining. Taking care of your own health and needs is important for yourself and your loved one. Here are some suggestions to help you cope:
Take care of your own health
It is important to realize that your own health care should not be ignored. The following suggestions will enable you to stay strong physically, mentally, and emotionally:
- Schedule regular check-ups for yourself.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can give you energy, burn off stress and improve your mood.
- Practice relaxation exercises. Deep breathing, meditation, prayer, and yoga can all help to reduce stress.
- Take some time for yourself. It helps to refresh you and better able you to care for your loved one.
Stay organized
Many caregivers also juggle other responsibilities, such as jobs and families. Managing your time well under such circumstances is particularly important. Make a schedule with your family, and stick to it. Have others in your family commit to taking over chores and tasks that you typically handle.
Create a support system
Family members, friends, and care workers can help out by giving you a break or helping out with certain tasks. Keep a list of your support team, times they are available, and tasks that they are willing to help with.
Set limits
There is a limit to what you can do as a caregiver. Ask for help for caring for your loved one when you are feeling overwhelmed.
Seek help for yourself
As a caregiver, you may deal with an array of emotions, including fear, anger, sadness, loneliness, and guilt. These are all normal emotions. Talking through your feelings with a trusted friend, clergy member, counselor, or in a support group can help you cope with your feelings.
In some cases, it may be advisable to seek professional help, particularly when you are suffering from depression or stress overload. Seek help from your doctor if you notice any of these signs:
- Excessive anger—toward your loved one, your family, or yourself
- Social withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems (either too much or not enough)
- Irritability
- Chronic health problems (like having a constant cold)
- No interest in activities you enjoy
- Feeling sad or numb all of the time
- Crying easily for no reason
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Change in appetite or in weight
- Trouble with memory or concentration
- Headaches, backaches, or stomach aches
- Thoughts of death or suicide
For more on-line suggestions for how to cope, visit the following Web sites:
People Living With Cancer: Provides a section for caregivers, including a number of helpful articles and resources.
American Association of Retired People (AARP): Devotes a section of their Web site to helpful articles about issues caregivers face.