Self-care for Caregivers

Being a caregiver to a loved one comes with demands that can be physically and emotionally draining. It is important to take time for yourself and your own needs to maintain your own health. Too much stress, over a long period of time, can be detrimental. Watch for signs of stress such as feeling overwhelmed, irritable, or tired often, difficulty with sleep, changes in your mood, trouble concentrating and headaches or other bodily pain. 

Here are some self-care tips to help manage caregiver stress:

• Find a few hours a week to engage in meaningful and enjoyable activities. 

• Use mindfulness strategies such as deep breathing and yoga to promote relaxation.

• Make your sleep a priority. 

• Eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

• Share your feelings. Seeking support from family members, friends, or support groups can provide validation, encouragement, and alleviate stress.  

• Set realistic goals. Prioritize and plan the most important things to get done day-to-day. Break large tasks up into smaller steps. Practice saying no to additional responsibilities and exhausting activities. 

• Accept help. Allow other family members and friends to help when needed. You can also discuss options for additional help with your loved one and their healthcare team.

If you are interested in receiving help managing your caregiver stress, reach out to Holistic Annex to learn about counselling services provided.