The Relearning Blog

If you are a caregiver, you may experience this role as incredibly rewarding at times and it can feel incredibly overwhelming. Caring for a loved one who is dependent on you in some way or form requires an incredible amount of energy, patience and compassion. It’s easy to put your own needs as secondary or nonexistent. “Do I have needs?” Does this resonate with you? You do have needs and they are important and taking care of yourself is not a luxury- it is essential for your well-being and will serve as fuel to keep you caring for your loved ones. Here are some ways you can take care of yourself:

Learning to set boundaries as a caregiver is going to help you in the biggest way possible. You may feel responsible. For everything. But it’s important to know your limits and once you are honest with yourself and accepting of these limits (yes, you are not superhuman), setting boundaries is crucial. It’s OK to say NO and ask for help so that you can prioritize your own needs.

Although it may not always be easy to take breaks as you get caught up in the constant demands of a caregiver, taking regular breaks is essential. If you are able to get some fresh air by stepping outside the front door or opening a window, deep breathing can recharge your mental and physical energy. Even if it’s 3 mins, a break will give you a chance to reset and it’s good practice to pause and breathe.

You do not have to do this alone. Find your community & support networks. There are many support caregiver groups and receiving support from family or friends will go a long way. Connecting with people who understand what you are experiencing helps in feeling less isolated and alone as a caregiver. It’s helpful to hear of other experiences, concerns, learning new coping strategies and the emotional support felt in these groups can feel like a breath of fresh air.

Exercise and Nourish your body. Exercise regularly if you can and this means body movement, not spending an hour in a gym (unless you can and want to of course) but movement of body helps to reduce stress and boost your overall mood. It can also help you feel more energised which you need to manage your caregiving duties. What you put into your body will also matter. The food you eat serves as fuel and eating well-balanced meals will improve your overall mental health, energy levels and mood. You can seek support in meal prep, asking family or friends or food service resources (meal deliveries), if this is an option for you.

Seeking Respite care is not always easy to do as you may worry if your loved one is being cared for properly. Through a professional caregiver or a trusted family member or friend, it is important that you weigh your options so that you do not burn out as a caregiver. Even for a short while, a few hours or days, this will help you feel recharged.

Don’t forget yourself and what you love to do. Losing sight of what your interests are and what excites you happens when you are caring for someone else. Taking the time to experience joy in what you love to do is essential. It will remind you of all the other facets of you outside your role as caregiver that are equally important. This can help you feel grounded in your entire identity, not just the one.

Self-compassion: offer yourself the same compassion you offer your loved one. Guilt, frustration, overwhelm and even despair are some emotions that are often felt. You are doing the best you can. Caregiving is hard and perfection is not the goal. It’s so important that you offer yourself compassion and acknowledge your efforts. So less self-judgment and more self-compassion.

Speak to a therapist if you feel that your caregiver responsibilities are impacting your mental health. Having a safe space to talk about your experience and all your emotions without judgment is invaluable. Learn coping strategies and receive emotional support. Remember if you are not well, your loved one will not be well.

Being a caregiver is hard and thank you for what you do everyday. Taking care of yourself is not selfish, but a necessity because of the role you play in someone else’s life. Taking care of yourself will ensure that you are in better form to take care of your loved one without entirely sacrificing your health and well-being. You can actually be a strong and present caregiver if you prioritise self-care. Remember to seek support so you also feel cared for, and this starts with you taking care of you first.

If you are ready to reach out for support from one of our therapists, please visit our website www.relearninghuman.com

Authored by Kavita Patel, RSW, MSW & Co-Founder of ReLearning Human