5 Ways to Look After Yourself When Caring for a Loved One
If you are caring for a loved one, even the most resilient of people can find it challenging at times. With so much of your schedule being taken up with looking after their health and wellbeing, it’s easy to forget about your own needs in the process. However, to provide the right care, you need to take care of your mind and body too. With that in mind, here are some self-care tips that all caregivers can benefit from.
Get More Sleep
Unlike a typical 9-5 job, caregivers work all kinds of shifts. Whether it’s early mornings or throughout the night, if you’re looking after a loved one, it’s vital you’re getting enough sleep. This is because when you’re in bed, your body has the chance to rest and recharge, helping to give you energy and stamina for the day ahead. For those who don’t get enough shuteye, certain practices can help. These include creating a relaxing bedroom environment and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before sleep.
Accept Help
When you’re a caregiver, there is only so much you can do on your own. Whether you’re looking after a senior parent or another family member, you need to accept help as and when you need it. This can include another sibling stepping in to help or looking into respite care. Never feel as though you’re alone as a caregiver. There are lots of people in the same boat as you, which means it may help to reach out to those who know exactly what you’re going through. You can join an online community, for instance, and speak to other caregivers.
Do the Things You Enjoy
With so much of your time being taken up by your caregiving duties, you may feel guilty about having some time for yourself. However, you need to have things to look forward to outside of the role. McKnight Place has a guide on caregiver guilt which can offer useful tips. Your loved one will want you to have a life outside of caregiving, so whether you take up a new hobby, play a sport, or catch up with friends, making time for yourself is a must.
Be Realistic
If you’re a caregiver, you need to be realistic about what you can do. Understandably, you’ll want to be by your loved one’s side 24/7. However, this isn’t practical or sensible. If you try and take on too much, this can lead to burnout and a decline in your mental health. There may be some duties you have difficulty carrying out too, which means it may be time to look at outside help.
Talk to Your Doctor
When caring for a loved one, things can get too much, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Therefore, scheduling a doctor’s appointment is advised. Speaking to a healthcare professional and getting support and advice can be a big help. Your medical appointments should also include regular visits with a physician and a dental expert like this cosmetic dentist in Clackamas.
As a caregiver, the duties and responsibilities on your shoulders can be overwhelming. With a loved one to look after, you must prioritize your own health and wellbeing too. There are lots of strategies you can implement into your routine that will keep you upbeat and ensure you’re delivering the best care possible.