If
you are a caregiver, is anyone taking care of you? I wrote an article for TheHufftington Post several days ago, and received a terrific response, as this is
clearly an issue that touches many. The stress and strains of taking care of
someone chronically ill 24/7 day in day out, no doubt take their toll. Despite
wanting to care for your loved one, many emotions come into play and it's only
natural you may feel anger, resentment, grief, sorrow or even depression. This
is where support groups especially designed for caregivers come into their own, and play an
important role, for there are limits that anyone can take in this situation. Being able to talk about issues with others in the same boat, can be
very helpful, ensuring the caregiver does not feel alone.
A caregiver needs to acknowledge they may be under constant pressure and considerable stress, for it's not just
patients that can be in denial. Understanding and realising it's OK to ask for
help may be difficult but is an important step in accepting the situation.
Don't be a martyr and struggle alone; accept help graciously when it's offered.
One of the most important things for a caregiver is to have some time off and
away from the situation; doing something fun, going out with friends, or taking
part in a particular hobby that is out side of the home environment. Having
"time out" is vital to ensure the caregiver doesn't emotionally "burn
out". It is also imperative a caregiver takes care of him/herself; i.e.
having regular doctors check ups and not neglecting their own health. It's all
far too easy to be immersed it taking care of someone, and forgetting your own
needs; going to the dentist, doing some form of exercise that you enjoy, making sure you
eat a well balanced diet. You need to take care of you, to enable you to
continue caring for your loved one without causing yourself detrimental harm psychologically and physically.
As harsh as it may sound and feel, if you are a
caregiver, put yourself first on occasion, because stop and think about it a moment; who's taking
care of you?
Caregivers are alright, heh. Shouldn't be a problem. I could see how we can pine for our own strengths. Though yes, sometimes they should be provided assistance when they need it to help them stand on their own legs. They should catch a break once in a while too. :)
ReplyDeleteTheodore @ Live-In Comfort
We all need someone to look after us. No one survives alone. To become a good caregiver, one should know how to take care of himself first. Keep in mind that physical, emotional, and mental stability are important to be able to provide quality service.
ReplyDelete-Vonda Cheney @ AmberCare